Tony McLoughlin (Sligo-Leitrim, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

431. To ask the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the position regarding the sale of a Garda station (details supplied) which is now closed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17511/17]

Seán Canney (Galway East, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The OPW's Disposal Policy with regard to non-operational (vacant) State property including the former Garda station at Keshcarrigan, Co. Leitrim is to:

1. Identify if the property is required/suitable for alternative State use by either 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).

As part of the Programme for a Partnership Government, the Policing Authority will oversee a review of closed Garda stations.An Garda Síochána are currently carrying out this review and it is anticipated that this review will be concluded in May 2017.

The outcome of this review may influence any decision that the Commissioners of Public Works reach with regard to the future use of this property and the Commissioners advise me that they will assess the options for the property at Keshcarrigan following the conclusion of the review.