Garda Stations Closures

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 6 February 2013

Wednesday, 6 February 2013

Questions (93)

Willie Penrose

Question:

93. Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if he will indicate, the policy of the Office of Public Work regarding Garda stations that have been closed in recent weeks; if, in this context, he will take steps to have a barracks, at a location (details supplied) in County Westmeath, handed over to the local development association who wish to acquire same in order to utilise it for community purposes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6110/13]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform

The Office of Public Works is required to manage its property portfolio in the most efficient and effective manner that provides the optimum value to the taxpayer.

The policy with regard to closed Garda stations is as follows:

1. Identify, in the first instance, if other State Bodies, including government departments and the wider public sector has a use for the property.

2. If there is no other State use for a property the OPW will then consider disposing of the property on the open market, if and when conditions prevail, in order to generate much needed revenue for the Exchequer.

3. If no State requirement is identified or if a decision is taken not to dispose of a particular property the OPW would consider, community involvement subject to the receipt of an appropriate business case which would indicate that the community/voluntary group has the means to insure, maintain and manage the property.