Dinny McGinley
Question:612 Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding the provision of a new Garda station in Killybegs, County Donegal. [9008/02]
Written Answers. - Garda Stations.
It is the intention to build a new Garda station on the existing site in Killybegs. I cannot say when this might happen as it will depend on a number of factors, including the availability of funding and other resources, and overall priorities within the Garda building programme.
However, I am informed by the Office of Public Works that arrangements have been finalised recently that will allow the station party in Killybegs to move very shortly to suitable, and acceptable, temporary accommodation in the town.
Enda Kenny
Question:613 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will confirm the placement of Ballinrobe Garda station on the priority list for provision of new Garda stations as at 1 March 2001 and 1 March 2002; the priority list of Garda stations which have commenced construction between March 2001 and 1 March 2002; if planning permission has been acquired for the provision of a new Garda station in Ballinrobe, County Mayo; when such planning permission was authorised; if he has authorised commencement of construction of the Ballinrobe Garda station; the proposed commencement date; the allocation of money contained in the building Estimate for his Department for the construction of new Garda stations in 2002; if, in respect of the Ballinrobe Garda station, a tender has been awarded, a contractor appointed and a date set for commencement of work; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9035/02]
Enda Kenny
Question:614 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the priority list numbered 1-20 for the construction of new Garda stations at present; and if the allocation of money is available for construction of the Garda stations which will commence in 2002; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9036/02]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 613 and 614 together.
As regards Ballinrobe, the Deputy will be glad to know that I have been informed by the Office of Public Works, which has responsibility for such matters, that a contract was placed this month for the construction of a new Garda station in the town. I understand that work on the project will commence subject to the receipt of the required bond from the builder. Moreover, I understand from the Office of Public Works that the contract duration is nine months.
On the general issue of a priority list for such projects, I point out that the building and major refurbishment of Garda stations is carried out in conformity with priorities decided on in consultation with the Garda authorities, Garda staff associations and the Office of Public Works. It should be noted, however, that works are not always undertaken in strict numerical sequence as, for instance, the commencement of a project is dependent on a number of factors, for example the successful acquisition of a suitable site for the development.
Finally, the allocation of funding for such capital projects is a matter for the Office of Public Works. It has informed me that funding has been provided in this year's Vote for that office for the construction of new Garda stations and for major refurbishments to others.