Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank Senator Clifford-Lee for raising this important matter. The Senator will appreciate that the programme of replacement and refurbishment of Garda accommodation is progressed by the Garda authorities in close co-operation with the OPW. The latter has responsibility for the provision and maintenance of Garda accommodation. This includes identifying and progressing any necessary remedial or refurbishment works required at individual stations. As Minister, I have no direct role in those matters.

As the Senator will be aware, there is a commitment in A Programme for a Partnership Government regarding a pilot scheme to reopen six Garda stations - both urban and rural - to determine possible positive impacts that such openings will have on criminal activity. There will be special emphasis on burglaries, theft and matters of public order. The then Garda Commissioner's final report, which is available on my Department’s website, recommends that Rush Garda station, along those at Ballinspittle in County Cork, Bawnboy in County Cavan, Leighlinbridge in County Carlow, Donard in County Wicklow and Stepaside in County Dublin, be reopened.I am informed by Garda authorities that a brief of requirements was provided to the Office of Public Works, OPW, on the reopening of these six stations, including the station at Rush. The Garda authorities requested the OPW to undertake technical surveys to determine the works which would be required to enable the stations to reopen and the estimated costs involved. I am further informed that this key stage is now complete and the OPW has conducted the necessary technical surveys of all six stations and has written to the Garda Commissioner outlining the works required and the estimated cost involved. I understand An Garda Síochána is considering the detail of those reports and any outstanding questions on the brief in each case; and that An Garda Síochána and the OPW continue to liaise closely to progress the reopening on a pilot basis. Works will commence once the appropriate procurement process has been finalised. I reiterate that the OPW and An Garda Síochána are working closely to progress this pilot project and my Department is also closely following the case, with a view to enabling the reopening at the earliest opportunity.