Penrose 'on brink of quitting' over barracks closures

It is suspected that Labour Minister Willie Penrose will resign this morning over the Goverment's decision to close Columb Barracks in Mullingar.

The Longford/Westmeath TD has been discussing the issue with his party colleagues and is very much against the Government's move to shut the barracks.

Speaking to Shannonside Radio, local councillor Mick Dollard said that Minister Penrose will resign over the issue, with all Labour councillors in Westmeath possibly following suit.

Mr Dollard said: "I know where Willie Penrose stands and I know that Willie Penrose will walk.

"It is very importatnt now that he will be able to walk up the street in Longford or in Mullingar with his head up high after making a principled stand on this issue. I think he will have all the Labour councillors walking out as well."