asked the Minister for Justice if it is proposed to erect a new Garda station at Ballinahowan, County Westmeath, which caters for a large portion of County Offaly; if he is aware of reports that the existing Garda station is about to be closed; and if he will make a statement in view of the widespread uneasiness among the general public because of these reports.
Ceisteanna — Questions. Oral Answers. - Westmeath Garda Station.
27.
In cases where a question arises of erecting a new station, the practice in the force is to examine the question of the closing of the station and the policing of the area from adjoining stations.
The closing, or reduction of Ballinahowan station to sub-station status, is dependent upon the outcome of an examination now being carried out of the policing and police needs of the sub-district and arrangements for the patrolling of the area from adjoining stations.
Would the Minister be prepared to give an undertaking on behalf of his colleague that before a firm decision is taken to close this station local people will be consulted, the people of the sub-division area, who are very much alarmed because of the rumour that this station, which has served a very good purpose, is to be closed down?
I will convey that suggestion to my colleague.
Perhaps the files which the Minister has may reveal the position and perhaps the Minister could indicate how far the proposal for the erection of the new station has gone? Perhaps if the matter has gone a certain distance the Government might consider proceeding with the erection of a new station?
The Minister is awaiting the report of the Garda Commissioner on the position.
On which situation? The closing down of the station or the building of a new one?
The policing of the area generally.
That does not mean that it is closed or open.