Garda Stations.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 27 April 2004

Tuesday, 27 April 2004

Questions (684)

Pádraic McCormack

Question:

743 Mr. McCormack asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his proposals for the building of a new Garda station at Oranmore, County Galway, to serve this vastly expanding area; his plans in relation to same; when the building of the Garda station will be due to commence; when it is likely to be completed; if, in the meantime, additional Garda resources will be provided to cope with the greatly expanding population of Oranmore and the surrounding district; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11766/04]

Written answers

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

It is planned to build a new Garda station in Oranmore. To that end, a sketch scheme for a new, city type, station is being considered by the Garda authorities at present. Accordingly, while it is not possible to say at this point when the project will commence, the matter will be progressed as quickly as possible, in view of the requirement to vacate the current station by mid-2005.

The personnel strength of Oranmore Garda station at 23 April 2004 was five across ranks. The situation will be kept under review and when additional personnel next become available the needs of Oranmore Garda station will be fully considered within the overall context of Garda divisions throughout the country.