Dáil Éireann Debate, Friday - 16 September 2016
43. Deputy Noel Rock asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality if, in view of recent census data, the decision to close Whitehall Garda station will be reviewed; if spare capacity within the building or on the grounds which is now housed by other services will be utilised; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24802/16]
View answerAs the Deputy will be aware, during 2011 and 2012, An Garda Síochána completed a comprehensive review of its district and station network with a view to identifying opportunities to introduce strategic reforms to enhance service delivery, increase efficiency and streamline practices within the organisation.
Having reviewed all aspects of the Garda Síochána policing model, including the deployment of personnel, the utilisation of modern technologies and the overall operation of Garda stations, Garda management concluded that a revised district and station network commensurate with the organisation’s resource base would best meet public demand.
Arising from this process, the Garda District and Station Rationalisation Programme was implemented and resulted in the closure of 139 Garda Stations throughout the State, including Whitehall Garda Station in 2012.
As with other stations that were closed under the Rationalisation Programme, the former Garda Station at Whitehall was returned to the control of the Office of Public Works which, as the Deputy will be aware, has refurbished the building to facilitate its use by the Office of the State Pathologist and the Dublin City Mortuary.
