asked the Minister for Finance the present position with regard to the erection of a Garda residence and station at Culdaff, County Donegal.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - New Garda Stations.
19.
Mr. Kenny
Plans for a new station and residence at this centre are nearing completion and it is hoped to invite tenders about the end of this year.
20.
asked the Minister for Finance if he is aware of the urgent need to provide a new Garda station at Kanturk, County Cork; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Mr. Kenny
It is proposed to erect a new district headquarters at Kanturk and the necessary plans are being prepared. It is hoped to invite tenders early next year.
21.
asked the Minister for Finance the steps that have been taken to provide a central Garda station for Limerick at Henry Street.
Mr. Kenny
Sketch plans for a new divisional headquarters on the site of the former St. Munchin's College, Henry Street, have been completed. It is not yet possible to give a definite date for the invitation of tenders, but it is hoped to reach that stage in about six months.
Is there a serious hold-up? This matter has been under consideration for many years.
Mr. Kenny
It was decided in 1969 to build a large new central station in Limerick on the site of the William Street station. The decision was taken following abortive attempts to secure a better site. Plans had been prepared for the erection of a new station at William Street but it was decided by the Minister for Justice in November, 1971, that the former St. Munchin's College property in Henry Street which had become available should be acquired for use as a site for the new station. It was decided to purchase the site. The purchase was completed on the 29th March, 1972. A team of consultants were employed to undertake the necessary work of design and planning and plans have been completed and are with the Department of Justice for their approval. If there is any hold-up it may be with that Department.
The delay may be in the Department of Justice?
Mr. Kenny
Yes. The next stage involves the preparation of working drawings, specifications and bills of quantities. It is hoped to have these ready and tenders invited in about six months.