Tom Hayes (Tipperary South, Fine Gael)
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Question 647: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the budget for the proposed rural Garda station programme nationally; the number of places in Tipperary south that will benefit from this programme by getting new Garda stations; and when the Garda authorities and his Department will have completed the discussions in order that this will go ahead. [3732/08]

Brian Lenihan Jnr (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)
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The detailed allocation of resources, including accommodation, is a matter for the Garda Commissioner to decide in accordance with his identified operational requirements. There is a significant ongoing programme of replacement and refurbishment of Garda stations and other Garda accommodation around the country, including in County Tipperary. The Garda accommodation programme is based on agreed priorities established by An Garda Síochána and is brought forward in close cooperation with the Office of Public Works, which has responsibility for the provision and maintenance of Garda accommodation.

Under the National Development Plan a total of €260 million is assigned for Garda stations and other accommodation. In addition, a budget of €9.5 million is available this year alone for the maintenance of Garda premises. This level of resources translates into tangible improvements with improved conditions and service levels for both Gardaí and public alike.

I have been informed by the Office of Public Works that a review of a number of rural stations nationwide is currently taking place in consultation with An Garda Síochána with a view to putting in place a targeted programme of renewal. The results of this review will feed into a broader Garda accommodation strategy which is being developed at present by An Garda Síochána.