Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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The position regarding the new prison facility at Thornton Hall is that work is well advanced on a number of fronts including site investigations, surveys and studies including the areas of archaeology, flora and fauna. It is intended to complete this aspect in the near future. In addition, detailed discussions have been held with Fingal County Council and other relevant bodies in relation to the provision of services to the site. In relation to the actual prison facilities, I can confirm that following an EU tender competition four companies have been short-listed to receive the tender documentation in relation to the project. It is planned to issue tenders for the project shortly, with a view to construction commencing on site by early 2007. It is likely to be 2010 before the new facility is completed and transfers from Mountjoy can commence.

As regards the expected impact that the move will have on Mountjoy Garda Station, section 22 of the Garda Síochána Act, 2005 sets out the Garda Commissioner's obligation to produce an Annual Policing Plan. Such a Plan must include any proposal to cease stationing members in an existing station.

I will carefully consider any proposal from the Commissioner relating to the matters referred to by the Deputy in due course.