Jim Daly (Cork South West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank Senator Feighan. On behalf of the Minister for Justice and Equality, Deputy Flanagan, who unfortunately cannot be here, I thank the Senator for raising this matter. As he will be aware, considerable investment is being made in the Garda estate to address its deficiencies and to provide fit-for-purpose facilities for Garda members and staff, as well as for the public interacting with them. This is a significant undertaking, as there are currently 565 stations nationwide. The Office of Public Works is responsible for the provision and maintenance of Garda accommodation and is working with Garda authorities to deliver on that investment.

The Minister is very familiar with the need for new facilities in Sligo and is keeping a close eye on progress. The Garda Síochána building and refurbishment programme for 2016-2021 is based on the agreed priorities of An Garda Síochána.It includes the development of a new Garda station in Sligo as part of a public-private partnership, PPP, bundle arrangement. Site acquisition for this bundle was complex and has taken longer than envisaged. However, the matter is now progressing to the next stage with the assistance of the NDFA. The Department of Justice and Equality and the Garda authorities are actively working with the OPW to progress this matter, with the input and assistance of the NDFA.

The establishment of PPP projects is complex and it is vital to get the details of the projects right at the planning and design stage. However, on behalf of the Minister, I can assure the Senator that delivery of the new Garda stations in Sligo and other locations through this PPP arrangement is being pursued as a priority. Pending delivery of the new stations, the Minister is informed that Garda management and the OPW has been working to improve conditions and facilities at the existing stations.