Tim Lombard (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the reported reopening of Ballinspittle Garda station in Cork this morning. This is a very important step. The station in Ballinspittle is one of a number that were closed in 2012 and 2013. In many ways, the reopening is about trying to tackle rural crime. Having Garda stations in villages such as Ballinspittle is very important. It is an extremely positive that the Minister, as part of a pilot programme, examined the position with regard to reopening this station. It is now reported that the station will reopen. That is very positive for the local community, particularly the people who live in Ballinsplittle. The entire peninsula on which the village is located requires a Garda station. It is on the periphery. The recent campaign by the community to achieve this reopening must be acknowledged. I hope similar communities can be supported in their battle against rural crime, which is a major problem for them. This Garda station will hopefully do its best to ensure that crime in the area will be tackled.