Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 11 July 2017
195. Deputy Michael Moynihan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform further to Parliamentary Question No. 288 of 27 June 2017, if the building will be retained for use by the local community; if the building will be maintained in order that it could be used as a Garda station; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32424/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs part of the Programme for a Partnership Government, the Policing Authority was asked to carry out a review of closed Garda stations with a view to the possible reopening of a number of stations. It is expected that a final report on this issue will be delivered in due course. Pending the delivery of this report, final decisions cannot be made on the future use of those closed Garda stations.
For your information, the policy of the Office of Public Works (OPW) with regard to non-operational (vacant) Garda stations is to:
1. Identify if the property is required/suitable for alternative State use by both Government departments and the wider public sector.
2. 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,
3. 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 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.
I am advised by the Commissioners of Public Works that the future use of the former Garda station at Knocknagree, Co. Cork will be determined in line with stated policy once the review has concluded.
