In late 2006 the Office of Public Works purchased the site referred to by the Deputy on behalf of An Garda Síochána for use long term as a practical training centre, including firearms training for Gardaí.
In the interim, An Garda Síochána have put in place arrangements for firearms training including the provision of modular live firearms facilities, the Firearms Automated Training System (FATS) and the use of army ranges. I am advised by the Garda authorities that there are sufficient resources and infrastructure in place to provide training for members of An Garda Síochána who are authorised to carry firearms.
I am advised by the Garda authorities that the development of the site referred to by the Deputy is at the conceptual planning stage and that the Garda authorities, in consultation with the Office of Public Works, are advancing their plans.
As the proposals are at an early stage of development and are dependent on availability of resources, it is not yet possible to give a timeframe for completion.