Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 6 March 2013
42. Deputy Eamonn Maloney asked the Minister for Justice and Equality in view of the recent closure of small Garda Stations, the arrangements in place to expand, extend, refurbish or re-site existing Garda Stations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11424/13]
View answerThe programme of replacement and refurbishment of Garda accommodation is based on agreed accommodation priorities which are established by An Garda Síochána. This programme is progressed by An Garda Síochána in co-operation with the Office of Public Works, who have responsibility for capital expenditure in this area. I understand from the Garda authorities that refurbishment work has been undertaken to provide additional station accommodation arising from the closure of stations in accordance with the 2013 Garda Policing Plan. This programme has been pursued in conjunction with the Office of Public Works.
I am also very pleased that the provision of three new Garda Divisional Headquarters for Kevin Street in Dublin, Galway and Wexford was included in the special Government stimulus package announced last July. I believe that the provision of these facilities will significantly enhance Garda capacity to carry out their functions more effectively. Overall, Garda accommodation requirements throughout the country are subject to ongoing review and they will be progressed in the context of An Garda Síochána's identified accommodation priorities and in the light of available resources.
