Seán Fleming (Laois, Fianna Fail)
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334. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality his plans regarding improvement works to be carried out at a Garda station (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33058/17]

Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael)
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The programme of replacement and refurbishment of Garda accommodation is progressed by the Garda authorities working in close co-operation with the Office of Public Works (OPW), which has the responsibility for the provision and maintenance of Garda accommodation, and I, as Minister, have no direct role in the matter.

The refurbishment of Portlaoise Garda station is included in the Garda Capital Investment Programme 2016-2021, which is an ambitious 5- year Programme based on agreed priorities established by An Garda Síochána that will benefit over thirty locations around the country. The Programme will provide new stations and modernise older stations at key locations around the country, ensuring safe, modern working environment for members and staff of An Garda Síochána as well as fit-for-purpose facilities for visitors, victims and suspects. It includes major refurbishment of stations and facilities, including facilities for meeting victims of crime, essential remedial works to existing stations, development of large scale property and exhibit management stores, the upgrade of cells and the provision of improved custody management facilities.

In relation to Portlaoise Garda station, I am informed that the project will involve an upgrade and refurbishment of the present Garda Station and custody suite along with the provision of additional accommodation for An Garda Síochána on the adjacent State property, which will necessitate an adjustment to the site. Local Garda management are working closely with the Office of Public Works to finalise sketch scheme proposals based on the brief of accommodation requirements provided by An Garda Síochána.

The Garda authorities inform me that due to the scale of this major capital project the OPW estimate that construction works will be carried out in phases. It is anticipated that the first phase of works will commence on site in 2018, with further phases commencing thereafter.