asked the Minister for Finance when the construction of a new Garda station in Wicklow town will commence; and the estimated cost of the station.
586.
Written Answers. - Wicklow New Garda Station.
585.
asked the Minister for Finance the position in regard to the commencement of the erection of a new Garda station in Wicklow town; if he will outline the schedule for the provision of accommodation; and the cause of the delay in constructing this station.
With the permission of the Ceann Comhairle I propose to take Questions Nos. 585 and 586 together.
A sketch scheme for a new Garda District Headquarters in Wicklow town was submitted to the Department of Justice and the local authority in March 1979. The local authority laid down certain conditions which necessitated a revision in design. Subsequently, requests for the inclusion of extra Garda requirements were received from the Department of Justice. These were included in a further revised scheme which had to be resubmitted to the Department of Justice and the local authority for their agreement.
Tenders have recently been invited for the erection of the new headquarters and are due on 20 May. The question of cost must await the receipt of tenders. It is not possible at this stage to say when building will commence but there will be no avoidable delay in placing a contract.
Sufficient office, dining and recreation facilities to meet Garda needs are being provided in the new building.