Brendan Griffin (Kerry, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

161. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality his views on a matter (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [47228/18]

Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

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. As Minister, I have no direct role in these matters.

I am informed by the Garda authorities that 139 Garda stations were closed under the Garda Station Rationalisation Programme of 2012 and 2013, including Moyvane Garda Station. Upon closure, these properties were handed back to the Office of Public Works.

I am informed by the Garda authorities that the Station Rationalisation Programme allowed front line Garda to be managed and deployed with greater mobility, greater flexibility and in a more focused fashion, particularly with regard to various targeted police operations.

More generally, the Deputy may wish to be aware that the Policing Authority, having regard to a commitment in the Programme for Government, requested the Garda Síochána Inspectorate to carry out a review of the dispersal and use of resources available to An Garda Síochána in the delivery of policing services to local communities. It is expected the review will be submitted to the Policing Authority by the Inspectorate by the end of this year.