Garda Stations

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 30 January 2018

Tuesday, 30 January 2018

Ceisteanna (181)

Catherine Martin

Ceist:

181. Deputy Catherine Martin asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the date the Office of Public Works will enter Stepaside Garda station to commence assessment on the re-opening of the station; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4019/18]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform

Stepaside Garda is in the full ownership of the Commissioners of Public Works in Ireland. The station was closed on 14 March 2013 as part of the rationalisation programme of An Garda Síochána, as announced in the 2013 Policing Plan.

The Commissioners put a guardianship arrangement in place with Camelot in 2014. My officials have advised Camelot that, in accordance with the contractual agreement in place, a 25 day notice to vacate the premises will issue. This is subject to an assessment of when refurbishment works will begin.

While preliminary investigations of the property are being completed, the OPW is engaging with An Garda Síochána in relation to their Brief of Requirements, which will facilitate a full assessment of the extent of works required, the cost and the timeframe for completion of the works in advance of reopening the station at Stepaside.