Seán Canney (Galway East, Independent)
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The policy of the Office of Public Works (OPW) with regard to non-operational (vacant) properties and sites including former Garda stations is to:

1. Identify if the property is required/suitable for alternative State use by Government departments or the wider public sector.

2. If there is no other State use identified for a property, the OPW will then consider disposing of the property on the open market if and when conditions prevail, in order to generate revenue for the Exchequer.

3. If no State requirement is identified or if a decision is taken not to dispose of a particular property the OPW may consider community involvement subject to detailed written submission which would indicate that the community/voluntary group has the means to insure, maintain and manage the property and that there are no ongoing costs for the Exchequer.

I am advised by the Commissioners of Public Works that they are currently assessing the options for the former Garda station at Glenfarne, Co. Leitrim in line with the above policy. On completion of this process a final decision will be taken on the future of the property.