Alan Farrell (Dublin Fingal, Fine Gael)
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150. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the status of the reopening of Rush Garda station; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42851/18]

Charles 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 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 on the matter, which is available on my Department's website, recommended that Rush Garda Station be reopened, along with stations in Ballinspittle, Co. Cork, Bawnboy, Co. Cavan, Donard, Co. Wicklow, Leighlinbridge, Co. Carlow 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 each of these 6 stations, including Rush Garda Station, and that the OPW has undertaken technical surveys to determine the works required to enable the Garda stations, including Rush to reopen.

Design, planning (where required) and procurement for each of the 6 stations are now being progressed by the OPW, in conjunction with the Garda, in line with all applicable processes and procedures. I am informed that final sign-off on the works required at Rush is expected in the near future. Implementation of the programme and reopening of all 6 stations is being pursued as a priority and it is understood that the OPW expects works should be completed in each case in 2019.