andMr. Clinton asked the Minister for Justice the present position of the proposed new Garda station in Ballyfermot, Dublin; when tenders for it will be invited; and when building work will commence.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Dublin Garda Stations.
59.
A sketch plan of the proposed new Garda Station at Ballyfermot has been prepared and is under consideration. I am not yet in a position to say when tenders for the new station will be invited or when construction works will commence.
Having regard to the unfair decision of Dublin Corporation to visit the problem of itinerants on Ballyfermot, will the Minister give top priority to providing a Garda station at Ballyfermot?
Certainly.
This is an area which is the same size as the city of Waterford and it has no Garda station.
I do not like the Deputy's unwarranted implication that there is some relation between the site of the Garda station and the itinerants. However, the plans are going ahead.
The people in Ballyfermot are very law-abiding people.
I agree.
I appreciate that.
The people in Ballyfermot are law-abiding but they are now being visited with a problem which should be the problem of all Dublin city. Ballyfermot is being asked to bear the not easy burden of absorbing these people.
I take it that the problem should be tackled?
It should be, by everyone. Adequate provision should be made to protect Ballyfermot.
60.
asked the Minister for Justice the present position relating to the need for a new Garda station in Rathmines, Dublin; the site for the proposed station; and when it is likely to be built.
The Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Finance has informed me that a new lease of the site of the present Garda station at Rathmines was recently obtained. The new building will be erected on this site. I am not in a position at this stage to say when construction works will commence.
Is the Minister aware of the deplorable condition of the station at Rathmines?
I am well aware of that; we are getting on with the job.
After Ballyfermot, the Minister will give this the next priority?