Minister for Defence announces funding for the refurbishment of Block 8, Haulbowline Naval Base Minister for Defence Cork TD Simon Coveney has announced that he has approved funding for the refurbishment of Block 8 at Haulbowline Naval Base to provide for additional accommodation for Naval Service personnel. It is expected a Main Contractor will be appointed in the coming weeks with works to commence on site shortly thereafter. Haulbowline Block 8 is a four storey stone faced building dating from approx. 1822, and has ‘listed’ status. This project entails the refurbishment and conversion of the building to increase the supply of available single living in accommodation, which will be completed to Defence Forces accommodation standards.