Tony McLoughlin (Sligo-Leitrim, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister for his reply but it does not answer the questions which I raised. The Minister is quite right that the OPW has a major role to play in this. As Minister for Justice and Equality, he will be aware of the needs of An Garda Síochána and the environment in which gardaí work at the moment and he has outlined some of those issues. He will be aware that gardaí must have proper facilities to combat crime, which they are doing. I acknowledge, on the record, the work which An Garda Síochána is doing under very difficult circumstances. Will the Minister intervene with the OPW to ascertain why there has been such a delay in locating a site? A number of sites have been identified and it is time for the new site to be identified very quickly and then we can get on with the other areas in the country.

It has been brought to my attention that some of the senior Garda personnel are to be transferred to another site in Finisklin. This has not happened. Perhaps the Minister would take note of that in future, along with the need for extension, investment and upgrading of the Garda station in Tubbercurry, County Sligo. This is vitally important. There are a number of issues there which are very concerning for An Garda Síochána. I have been highlighting these issues for a number of years. I have been told about the issues in Tubbercurry, the issues around the site which was to be occupied by senior Garda personnel in Finisklin and the need to vacate a part of the Garda station in order that there would be more room for the gardaí on duty in Sligo Garda station. There are a number of issues. I appeal to the Minister. It is vitally important the Department of Justice and Equality and the OPW get together and make an immediate decision in respect of the site required for Sligo Garda station.

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