Sheila Terry (Fine Gael)

I have raised this issue on the Adjournment before and wish to know what advances have been made since the last occasion. The probation and welfare service, of which I am very supportive, is committed to locating a facility in Blanchardstown. I welcome this step in so far as it is always the best policy to bring services closer to people. However, there are concerns about where the facility is to be located. The probation and welfare service has bought a building previously used by the AIB on Main Street, Blanchardstown, which is adjacent to a residential estate. The residents of that estate and some elderly people living in houses beside the old bank have significant concerns regarding the location of the facility.

Following a number of public meetings some months ago with all the public representatives, it was agreed by Government public representatives that other more suitable locations in the vicinity would be considered. For example, many social services are already provided in the town centre, where some vacant offices were identified and about which the Minister was notified. I expect at this stage that a full evaluation has been made of alternative sites in the town centre where all the services are provided and which is well served by public transport. I hope the Minister of State, Deputy Callely, has identified a more suitable premises in the vicinity of Blanchardstown centre, which would allow the old AIB bank to be sold, most likely at a substantial profit and with no loss to the taxpayer. I hope the Minister of State and the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, Deputy McDowell, have taken note of the concerns expressed by local people and that the right action will be taken. Blanchardstown village has been downgraded over the past number of years since the town centre was built. I am concerned that social services will only be available on the main street of the village, which does not provide any business life. The concerns expressed by residents are real concerns and the appropriate location is the town centre.