Written answers

Tuesday, 22 May 2018

Department of Justice and Equality

Garda Stations

Photo of Margaret Murphy O'MahonyMargaret Murphy O'Mahony (Cork South West, Fianna Fail)
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276. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality when Ballinspittle Garda station will reopen; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22567/18]

Photo of Charles FlanaganCharles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael)
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The Deputy will appreciate that the programme of replacement and refurbishment of Garda accommodation is progressed by the Garda authorities working in close cooperation with the Office of Public Works (OPW), which has the responsibility for the provision and maintenance of Garda accommodation. This includes identifying and progressing any necessary remedial or refurbishment works required at individual stations. As Minister, I have no direct role in these matters.

As the Deputy will be aware, the Programme for a Partnership Government commits to a pilot scheme to reopen 6 Garda stations, both urban and rural, to determine possible positive impacts that such openings will have on criminal activity, with special emphasis on burglaries, theft and public order.

The Garda Commissioner's final report, which is available on my Department's website, recommends that Ballinspittle Garda Station be reopened, along with stations in Bawnboy, Co. Cavan, Leighlinbridge, Co. Carlow, Donard, Co. Wicklow, and Rush and Stepaside, Co. Dublin.

I am informed by the Garda authorities that a brief of requirements was provided to the OPW in relation to the reopening of these 6 stations, including Ballinspittle Garda Station, and that the Garda authorities requested the OPW to undertake technical surveys to determine the works which would be required to enable the stations to reopen and the estimated cost of any such works.

I am further informed that the OPW has now conducted the necessary technical survey and has written to the Commissioner outlining the works and estimated cost involved.  An Garda Síochána is now considering that information. An Garda Síochána and the OPW remain in discussion regarding the pilot reopening.

I understand that at this stage it is not possible to provide a timeframe for reopening the stations concerned, which is dependent on a number of factors.

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