I propose to take Questions Nos. 262, 264 to 274, inclusive, and 292 together.
I am unaware of any proposal to shut rural garda stations.
The Garda Commissioner is currently preparing a long-term accommodation strategy for the Force. The strategy will seek to identify future Garda accommodation needs, taking into account anticipated policing demands. Any proposal by the Commissioner to close a station would by law have first to be included in the Garda Síochána's annual policing plan before approval by me and then laid before the Houses. The Commissioner recently stated that the Garda accommodation strategy is not targeted towards recommending the closure of Garda stations; rather it is about ensuring that Garda accommodation is safe, secure and fit for operational purpose to facilitate the ongoing delivery of the highest and most up-to-date standards of professional policing into the future.
On the question of rural policing, I was pleased to be present at the recent official opening of Ballymun Garda station when the Commissioner launched the National Model for Community Policing. This model is currently being implemented throughout the country.