Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 10 March 2022
195. Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the current status of the OPW auction of Ballyforan Garda station, County Roscommon; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13646/22]
View answerI am advised by the Commissioners of Public Works that all surplus properties, including the former Garda station at Ballyforan, Co. Roscommon are treated in line with the disposal policy of the Office of Public Works (OPW).
The OPW policy with regard to non-operational (vacant) State property is to:
1. Identify if the property is required/suitable for alternative State use by either Government Departments or the wider public sector.
1. If there is no other State use identified for a property, the OPW will then consider disposing of the property on the open market if and when conditions prevail, in order to generate revenue for the Exchequer.
1. If no State requirement is identified, or if a decision is taken not to dispose of a particular property, the OPW may consider community involvement (subject to a detailed written submission, which would indicate that the community/voluntary group has the means to insure, maintain and manage the property and that there are no ongoing costs for the Exchequer).
In line with the above policy, the OPW has sought alternative State use for the property but to-date no State requirement has been identified.
The former Garda station in Ballyforan is currently being prepared for public auction in 2022/2023.
