Dan Neville (Limerick West, Fine Gael)
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Question 47: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when a new Garda station will be built in Portlaoise, County Laois; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28285/10]

Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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The programme of replacement and refurbishment of Garda accommodation around the country is based on agreed priorities established by An Garda Síochána and it is progressed in close co-operation with the Office of Public Works, who have responsibility for the provision and maintenance of Garda accommodation.

I have been advised by the Garda authorities that significant refurbishment work has been carried out at the existing Garda station in Portlaoise since 2008, including the upgrading of office accommodation, cell facilities, public office and interview rooms and the refurbishment of canteen facilities. In 2009 the accommodation at Portlaoise was enhanced with the provision of additional accommodation.

I have been further informed by the Office of Public Works that a number of possible options are being explored with regard to identifying a suitable site for the development of a new Divisional Headquarters for An Garda Síochána in Portlaoise.

The provision of a new Garda station in Portlaoise will be progressed in the context of An Garda Síochána's identified accommodation requirements and in the light of available resources.