Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 28 May 2019
73. Deputy James Browne asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if the OPW will consider transferring the ownership of a building to an organisation (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22507/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am advised by the Commissioners of Public Works that there are no plans, at this time, to transfer the property to another public body.
Following the closure of the Garda station on Roche’s Road, Wexford on the 22nd September 2017 the Office of Public Works (OPW) sought alternative State use for the property.
There is no Central Government requirement for accommodation in the former Garda Station and no alternative State requirement for the property has materialised following engagement with Wexford County Council, the Health Service Executive and Tusla.
The OPW had agreed to enter into a lease arrangement with the Wexford Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Service for the part of the property known as the Sergeant's quarters as the main building was too big for their requirements. However, the Wexford Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Service advised the OPW on the 19th February 2019 that they were to be provided with alternative accommodation in Wexford and no longer required the Sergeant’s Quarters.
Wexford Community Services Council also known as St. Brigid’s Day Care Centre who currently occupy the adjoining property have also expressed an interest in acquiring the former Garda station property. They are currently carrying out a review of the property to establish if it can meet their needs and if acquiring the property, given the costs of refurbishment, would be feasible.
If Wexford Community Services Council/ St. Brigid’s Day Care Centre decide that they wish to proceed with acquiring the property and can satisfy the Commissioners of Public Works (CPW) that they are in a sound financial position to carry out substantial refurbishment works and maintain the property on an ongoing basis, the CPW will consider entering into a lease arrangement.
If the Wexford Community Services Council/ St. Brigid’s Day Care Centre decide not to proceed with acquiring the property, the OPW will again establish if there is any alternative State use for the property prior to disposing of it on the open market.
