asked the Minister for Justice if he will indicate the Garda stations which he proposes to close in North Tipperary and his reasons for such action.
46.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Closure of Tipperary Garda Stations.
45.
asked the Minister for Justice whether he proposes to close Birdhill Garda Station which is situated on the main Limerick-Dublin road; and, if so, if he is aware of the public unrest which such action will cause in the district.
47.
asked the Minister for Justice whether a decision has been taken to close the Garda station at Birdhill, County Tipperary; and, if so, whether he will be prepared to reconsider that decision.
With your permission, a Cheann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 45, 46 and 47 together.
I have no proposal before me for the permanent closing of any Garda station in North Tipperary.
Recently, on the recommendation of the Commissioner who stated that the premises were in need of repairs, I approved of the temporary closing of Birdhill Garda station. During the period of its closing this sub-district will be supervised from the adjoining Stations of Newport, Killaloe and Castleconnell.
Will the Gardaí now stationed at Birdhill be transferred to the adjoining stations?
I have not got the information readily available as to what particular member of the force will be transferred to which particular station but arrangements will be made to police the area from Newport, Killaloe and Castleconnell.
Can the Minister say how long the barracks will be closed for renovation?
Not at this stage.