Defence Minister Willie O'Dea has confirmed that over 20 Army officers are living in steel containers in a barracks in the middle of Dublin city.
Minister O'Dea was challenged by the Opposition about this accommodation for officers attending third level courses
Fine Gael's Jimmy Deenihan said it was an insult to the officers involved.
The Minister said the living quarters in Cathal Brugha Barracks, Rathmines, were suitable, had en-suite facilities and were heated.
Deputy Deenihan said the containers were usually seen on building sites where they were used by workers to have a cup of tea.
This afternoon, the Dáil was suspended for ten minutes after Fine Gael Spokesperson for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs Dinny McGinley shouted at Minister O'Dea about two army bases during question time.
The Minister had explained that army bases at Lifford and Rockhill, Co Donegal were being closed and the staff transferred to Finner Camp.
Mr McGinley asked if the Minister would visit the two bases and when told that this would be considered, he kept shouting that he wanted an answer immediately.
When the proceedings resumed, Deputy McGinley was ordered out for the rest of the day. He left under protest.
