Timmy Dooley (Fianna Fail)

In my constituency, there are many Garda stations in need of repair. That has come about over a period of time, particularly in some outlying areas where gardaí are no longer resident in local stations but use them as office space. Some stations are in poor condition. Just as in the case of schools, which have been the subject of much discussion, there are also Garda stations in immediate and urgent need of repair. I am delighted the Minister of State is moving ahead in that regard, as well as providing new buildings. We have had a great deal of debate in recent weeks on the state of the nation in terms of crime. Many Senators called for action by the Garda on maintaining law and order. We must also have regard for the basic requirements of gardaí in carrying out their duties by ensuring they have proper facilities in which to operate. We will not provide them with that if we do not put a programme of refurbishment in place along with the building of new stations. In that context, I agree with the Minister of State's proposals.