Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 21 October 2021
280. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice the number and location of Garda stations throughout the country due for upgrading, refurbishment or replacement; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [51943/21]
View answerAs the Deputy will be aware, the Garda Commissioner is responsible under the Garda Síochána Act 2005 (as amended) for the management and administration of Garda business, which includes decisions relating to the Garda estate. The Commissioner is also the designated Accounting Officer for An Garda Síochána under the provisions of the Act and is independent in these functions.
I am advised that the programme of replacement, refurbishment and management of Garda accommodation is progressed by An Garda Síochána working in close cooperation with the Office of Public Works (OPW).
The determination of the need for an upgraded, refurbished or new Garda Station is considered by the Commissioner in the context of a wide of a range of factors, including the overall accommodation needs arising from the ongoing expansion of the Garda workforce, the implementation of 'A Policing Service For our Future' (the Government's implementation plan for the recommendations of the report of the Commission on the Future of Policing in Ireland), the new Garda Operating Model and available resources.
The Garda authorities are currently considering their plans for capital and other estate projects in this context of the renewed National Development Plan, having regard to priorities and emerging needs. Pending the conclusion of this analysis, the Deputy will appreciate that it is not possible to specify the number and locations throughout the country to be upgraded, refurbished or replaced in the immediate term.
