Helen McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael)
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As the Deputy will appreciate, the Garda Commissioner is responsible for the management and administration of Garda business, which includes all operational policing decisions regarding the Garda estate. This includes the opening of any individual Garda station. As Minister, I have no role in these independent functions which are a matter for the Commissioner.

The Office of Public Works (OPW) manages the maintenance and provision of Garda accommodation in close co-operation with the Garda authorities. Capital works on the Garda Estate are subject to the usual Public Sector procurement and budgetary processes.

I am informed by the Garda authorities that Bawnboy Garda Station remains closed at this time.

I understand Bawnboy is being serviced by a 24-hour presence at Ballyconnell Garda Station and also by personnel stationed at Swanlinbar Garda Station. At the end of December 2023 there were 126 Garda members assigned to Cavan District, of which 16 were assigned to Ballyconnell Garda station.