Patrick O'Donovan (Limerick, Fine Gael)
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116. To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality if she will provide details on a matter (details supplied) regarding Garda accommodation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [36180/14]

Frances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael)
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As the Deputy will appreciate, the Garda Commissioner is responsible for the distribution of personnel, including assigning members to Drugs Units, among the Garda Regions, Divisions, and Districts. Garda management keep this distribution under continuing review in the context of crime trends and policing priorities so as to ensure that the best possible use is made of these resources.

I have been informed by the Garda Commissioner that the personnel strength of Newcastle West Garda Station on 31 July, 2014, the latest date for which figures are readily available, was 38. The personnel strength of Newcastle West Garda Station on 31 December, 2010 was 28. Information in relation to support staff is as outlined as follows:

Civilian Staff as at 31/08/10

District Finance Officer/Staff Officer1

Clerical Officer3.4

Civilian Staff as at 31/08/14

District Finance Officer/Staff Officer1

Clerical Officer3.4

Following the amalgamation of Newcastle West and Askeaton Districts on the 22nd April, 2013 there was a requirement for additional IT infrastructure. In this regard sanction was given to carry out the necessary works.

The programme of replacement and refurbishment of Garda stations is based on accommodation priorities which are established by An Garda Síochána. The programme is advanced in close cooperation with the Office of Public Works (OPW), which has responsibility for the provision and maintenance of Garda accommodation. I am informed that the Garda authorities are currently examining the refurbishment of the station in question in conjunction with the OPW.