Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 17 April 2018
596. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number and location of Garda stations deemed to be in need of an upgrade; the number of those likely to receive attention in 2018; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16704/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe 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 the 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.
The Garda Síochána Building and Refurbishment Programme 2016 – 2021 includes a number of projects which reflect the priorities of An Garda Síochána, including:
- a Public Private Partnership (PPP) project to deliver new Garda stations in key areas;
- major refurbishment of stations/facilities including facilities for meeting victims of crime;
- essential remedial works to existing stations;
- development of Property and Exhibit Management Stores;
- upgrade of cells and provision of improved Custody Management Facilities.
Work is progressing with regard to the stations and facilities outlined in the Programme and will be progressed over the timeframe of the Programme, in conjunction with the OPW and other Government agencies as appropriate.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that to date in 2018, works relating to the provision of a dedicated custody facility at Henry Street Garda Station in Limerick have been completed and that Tralee Garda Station has been internally remodelled and new locker facilities have been provided.
In addition to the above, I understand that significant additions to the Garda estate are also in progress with a Divisional Headquarters at Kevin Street, Dublin due to open shortly and a Regional and Divisional Headquarters at Murrough, Galway expected to open in summer 2018.
In addition to the upgrades to existing facilities involved in the Building and Refurbishment Programme, I am informed by the Garda authorities that the OPW provides both planned and reactive maintenance to all Garda stations. Planned maintenance includes general replacement programmes as well as both summer and winter maintenance plans. The OPW advises that it is not possible to identify the number of Garda stations which will benefit from upgrades such as these during 2018 in the timeframe allowed.
In addition to the planned maintenance, Garda stations are included in the OPW Fabric Upgrade Programme, a rolling multi-annual programme, which provides capital upgrade work to Government owned properties nationwide. Works have been approved for five Garda stations under this programme in 2018 including in Dungarvan, Monaghan, Naas, Belmullet, and Schull.
