Vol. 563 No. 2
163 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the steps being taken to address the seriously inadequate facilities in many of the older Garda stations; if he is satisfied that all buildings used as Garda stations meet all the requirements of the health and safety legislation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7331/03]
One of my priorities as Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform is to ensure that adequate and suitable accommodation is available for members of the Garda Síochána so that they can conduct their business effectively and efficiently. While this is a difficult task, in view of the large number of stations and properties involved, some of which predate the foundation of the State, I am satisfied that every effort is being made, through the ongoing co-operation of my Department, the Office of Public Works and the main Garda representative associations, to address the matter of Garda accommodation in a coherent, and structured, fashion. It is a matter for the Office of Public Works to ensure that the requirements of health and safety legislation are satisfied.
