The Deputy will appreciate that the programme of replacement and refurbishment of Garda accommodation is progressed by the Garda authorities working in close cooperation with the Office of Public Works (OPW), which has responsibility for the provision and maintenance of Garda accommodation. This includes identifying and progressing any necessary remedial or refurbishment works required at individual stations. As Minister, I have no direct role in these matters.
I am assured by the Garda authorities that An Garda Síochána liaises very closely with the OPW in relation to any maintenance issues arising in Garda stations. This ensures that any issues arising which require remedial attention are addressed with the least possible delay.
As the Deputy will be aware, the Garda Building and Refurbishment Programme 2016-2021, which is an ambitious 5 year Programme based on agreed Garda priorities continues to benefit over thirty locations around the country. The Programme includes over €60million of Exchequer funding as well as a major Public Private Partnership project. It will provide new stations and modernise older stations at key locations around the country, ensuring safe, modern working environment for members and staff of An Garda Síochána as well as fit-for-purpose facilities for visitors, victims and suspects.
The programme includes a number of elements which reflect strategic priorities for An Garda Síochána, including:
- a Public Private Partnership (PPP) project to deliver new Garda stations in Sligo, Clonmel, and Macroom;
- major refurbishment of stations/facilities including facilities for meeting victims of crime;
- essential remedial works to existing stations;
- development of large scale Property and Exhibit Management Stores;
- upgrade of cells and provision of improved Custody Management Facilities.
In addition to the Garda Station Building and Refurbishment Programme, over €100 million has been provided for new Divisional Headquarters in Kevin Street, Dublin and Wexford, as well as for a new Regional Headquarters in Galway. Each of these projects is underway, with the Wexford Divisional HQ handed over to An Garda Síochána for occupation and use on 15 September 2017. I understand that the other projects will be completed by Q1 2018.
