Tom Parlon (Laois-Offaly, Progressive Democrats)

I thank the Senator for raising this issue and affording me an opportunity to answer and explain the position regarding Dunmanway Garda station, County Cork. As the Senator may be aware, the objective is to extend and refurbish the existing Garda station. An important aspect of the refurbishment work will involve improved access to the rear of the station. For this to take place, a privately-owned plot of land adjoining the Garda station needs to be acquired. The Commissioners of Public Works have endeavoured to purchase this plot of land for some time. Negotiations to acquire the land have been complicated and delayed by a number of factors, including the legal issue of the vendor's title, which he had to perfect.

I am pleased to note that all the delaying factors have been resolved and negotiations to acquire the freehold interest in the plot of land have resumed. These negotiations have entailed officials from the Office of Public Works engaging in regular contact with the vendor in recent months, through direct telephone communication and site visits. The OPW's valuer is in advanced discussions with the vendor with a view to agreeing a market price for the area required.

The House will appreciate that I am not in a position to give a precise date as to when the refurbishment works will commence. However, the Commissioners of Public Works are treating this case as a priority matter and are ready to proceed immediately on the refurbishment works to Dunmanway Garda station as soon as agreement to an acceptable price for the plot of land is secured. I assure the Senator that I will continue to endeavour to bring this matter to a satisfactory and successful outcome as soon as is possible.