Ann Phelan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Labour) | Oireachtas source

The Minister for Justice and Equality, Deputy Frances Fitzgerald, wishes to thank the Senator for raising the matter and regrets that she is unable to be present for this discussion.

The programme of replacement and refurbishment of Garda accommodation is based on requirements which are established by An Garda Síochána. This programme is advanced in close co-operation with the Office of Public Works, which has responsibility for the provision and maintenance of Garda accommodation. Provision for expenditure on capital projects, including the provision of Garda accommodation, is provided for in the Vote of the Office of Public Works.

In that context, the Minister has been informed by the Office of Public Works that the acquisition of a site for development of a new district headquarters in Bailieborough has been identified by An Garda Síochána as a priority for 2015.

The Minister has also been informed that a review of State-owned sites in the area was conducted to identify any suitable sites for the development of a new Garda station in Bailieborough. No suitable State-owned site was identified. The Office of Public Works has further advised the Minister that a notice has recently been published in local and national media seeking offers of suitable sites.

The Minister has been advised by the Garda authorities that the provision of a new Garda district headquarters in Bailieborough will continue to be pursued in the context of An Garda Síochána's identified accommodation priorities, the successful acquisition of a suitable site and in light of available resources within the Vote of the Office of Public Works.

With regard to the existing station at Bailieborough, the Garda authorities have advised that while a long-term solution to the accommodation needs at Bailieborough is being progressed, Garda management is actively engaged with the Office of Public Works with a view to improving, in the more immediate term, the working conditions at Bailieborough Garda station.

In that context, any proposals for refurbishment works at the existing station will be progressed in the context of An Garda Síochána's identified accommodation priorities and the availability of funding within the Vote of the Office of Public Works.