Kevin Moran (Longford-Westmeath, Independent) | Oireachtas source

Returning to the Deputy's previous question, he knows I have visited Donegal and Lifford and Burnfoot. I emphasise that I announced six major schemes during that visit. The associated costs are €6 million in Lifford, €1.5 million in Burnfoot, €1.75 million in Castlefinn, €900,000 in Downings, €600,000 in Glenties, and €30,000 in Kerrykeel. A sum of €2 million was also allocated to minor flood relief works, with €175,000 for a scheme in Ballybofey-Stranorlar. I am very much in agreement, therefore, with what is happening in Donegal and the surrounding areas. I am with the community. As I have said, I will visit soon to drive on those schemes.

Regarding the question on the review of closed Garda stations, I have examined the situation since I came into office and since we last appeared before this committee. I have been answering frequent parliamentary questions on the matter. I want to do something with these premises because many closed stations are lying idle. I met with the Garda Commissioner recently. I put forward proposals regarding some stations that could be given back to the local community through the local authorities. That could be for a community hall, a boxing club or whatever it might be. I want to deliver on that for communities all around the country. We will offer some closed Garda stations to the housing authorities, to the local authorities and to the Land Development Agency. If they do not want them, those premises will be sold. I am confident that a number of the remaining closed stations will reopen in the near future.

The Chair asked at the last meeting for a list of all vacant properties. As can be seen from that list, most of those properties are closed Garda stations and we need to do something with them. There is no point having those buildings empty and unused. They are costing taxpayers money each year to secure them, make them more presentable and ensure they do not fall into disrepair. Some of the closed stations have already gone to wrack and ruin and it has been suggested they could be used for parking. I support that. I have sent a list to the Garda Commissioner and I also have to meet with the Minister for Justice and Equality, Deputy Flanagan. We will then move to the next stage of the process.