Tom Neville (Limerick County, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister and welcome his statement. He has put some meat on the bones regarding the timeline for refurbishment. I ask the Minister to keep a close eye on this and that efforts be made to push it through as quickly as possible, given the timelines there in respect of next year. It will help if we can bring it forward or prioritise it to any degree, even perhaps by a number of months. The refurbishment was announced in 2014. I recognise the Minister's input and thank him for his reply and his prioritising of this issue.

On the issue of the Garda in County Limerick in general, I welcome the recruitment that is taking place and recognise that Templemore was opened by the last Government. We want to see that recruitment continue and to ensure the force is beefed up to the level outlined in the programme for Government but I must also put in my own spake for Limerick. I hope that rural Limerick is not forgotten but will be recognised, particularly given the challenges rural areas have had to face in recent years. The county will be complemented by the city region as well. We are trying to get the resources for the city but are keen to ensure the rural areas are not forgotten.

I have nothing but the utmost respect for the Garda in County Limerick and how it conducts itself. A superintendent in Newcastle West has retired. I wish him well and hope that his replacement will be brought in as soon as possible. I thank the Minister for replying to my question.

See this speech in context