Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 22 October 2020
161. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice the current progress in the programme for the refurbishment and replacement of Garda stations; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32283/20]
View answerThe government set out a significant programme of investment in Garda Stations as part of the National Development Plan 2018-2027.
As the Deputy will be aware, the Garda Commissioner is responsible by law for the general administration of Garda business, including the management of the Garda Estate. Further, the Office of Public Works (OPW) is responsible for the supply and maintenance of Garda accommodation and works in close cooperation with the Commissioner to ensure that the needs of An Garda Síochána are adequately met.
The current Garda Building and Refurbishment Programme 2016-2021 is an ambitious 5 year programme based on agreed Garda priorities. It includes the development of 3 new Regional/Divisional Headquarters in Kevin St (Dublin), Galway and Wexford as well as 3 large scale Property Exhibit Management Stores (PEMS) in the Louth, Kildare and DMR South Divisions. The programme, with significant Exchequer funding, also includes remedial and upgrade works to existing stations and refurbishment of 6 stations identified by the Commissioner to be reopened, including Rush, Donard and Stepaside Garda Stations.
Under Budget 2021, An Garda Síochána has been allocated over €1.9 billion, which includes €34 million for the Capital Building and Refurbishment Programme.
A proposed Building Programme 2022-2027 is also at early stages of discussion between the OPW, An Garda Síochána and officials from my Department.
I have been further advised by Garda management that the OPW has provided remedial works across the Garda Estate this year to provide enhanced safety measures for public health in line with CoVID-19 guidelines. This includes providing screens in public office hatches, prisoner processing hatches and interview rooms to enhance the safety of Garda members, persons in custody and the general public.
