Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 3 May 2017
117. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality her plans to build a new Garda station in Cootehill, County Cavan; her further plans for investment in this area; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21096/17]
View answerAs the Deputy will be aware, the programme of replacement and refurbishment of Garda accommodation is progressed by the Garda authorities working in close co-operation with the Office of Public Works which has the responsibility for the provision and maintenance of Garda accommodation, and I, as Minister, have no direct role in these matters.
I have asked the Garda Commissioner for the specific information requested and when it is to hand I will inform the Deputy accordingly.
The following deferred reply was received under Standing Order 42A
I refer to Parliamentary Question No. 117 for answer on 3rd May, 2017, regarding inter alia plans to build a new Garda station in Cootehill, County Cavan.
As you will recall, the information you requested could not be obtained in the time available, and I undertook to contact you again.
You will be aware that the programme of replacement and refurbishment of Garda accommodation is progressed by the Garda authorities working in close co-operation with the Office of Public Works (OPW), which has the responsibility for the provision and maintenance of Garda accommodation.
I have been advised by the Garda authorities that local Garda management has recently identified Cootehill Garda Station as being potentially suitable for the accommodation of additional Garda personnel. I understand that An Garda Síochána is currently engaging with the OPW to consider the priority works that could be undertaken to allow for the allocation of these personnel at this location.
In addition, the Garda Capital Building and Refurbishment Programme 2016-2021, which I announced with my colleague the Minister of State at the OPW on 21 October 2015, will benefit some 30 locations around the State and includes plans for the development of a new Garda station at Bailieborough and the refurbishment of the former Garda station in Stradone for additional Garda facilities.
I trust that the above is of assistance.
