Mattie McGrath (Tipperary, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

717. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the progress made on the new Clonmel Garda station at Kickham Barracks; when the contract will be awarded; and the commencement date for same. [13038/21]

Helen McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

As the Deputy will be aware, the Garda Commissioner is, by law, responsible for the management and administration of An Garda Síochána and for the effective and efficient deployment of Garda resources, including the provision of Garda stations. Furthermore, the Office of Public Works (OPW) has responsibility for the provision and maintenance of Garda accommodation and works in relation to Garda accommodation are progressed by the Garda authorities working in close cooperation with the OPW.

I am assured by the Commissioner that Garda management keeps the distribution of resources, including the provision of new stations, under continual review in the context of policing priorities and crime trends, to ensure their optimum use.

Following a review of An Garda Síochána's accommodation requirements, the Commissioner and his management team decided that a Public Private Partnership (PPP) should proceed to deliver new stations in Macroom and in Clonmel. I am advised by the Garda authorities that the new station in Clonmel is currently in the planning application process and is being managed by the OPW on behalf of An Garda Síochána.

I am further advised by the Garda authorities that the PPP process is being managed by the National Development Finance Agency (NDFA), and that these two stations are priorities for the Commissioner.

I can further inform the Deputy that An Garda Síochána has been allocated an unprecedented budget of €1.952 billion for 2021. This level of funding is enabling sustained, ongoing recruitment of Garda members and staff. Furthermore, €34 million has been allocated for the Capital Building and Refurbishment Programme.