Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 12 December 2019
78. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if he will address a matter regarding a Garda barracks (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52222/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs part of the Programme for a Partnership Government, the Office of Public Works (OPW) was requested not to dispose of any closed Garda stations pending the outcome of two reviews of closed Garda stations.
Following the conclusion of both reviews, it was confirmed in May 2019 by An Garda Síochána that particular properties remained surplus to its requirements. The Office of Public Works recommenced the process of identifying alternative State use, in line with the OPW’s disposal policy on surplus vacant property.
The OPW policy with regard to non-operational (vacant) State property, including the former Garda station at Moyvane is to:
1. Identify if the property is required/suitable for alternative State use by either Government Departments or the wider public sector.
2. If there is no other State use identified, 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. This is subject to a detailed written submission that demonstrates 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.
The OPW is in discussion with Kerry County Council who have expressed an interest in acquiring the property.
If Kerry County Council decide not to proceed with the acquisition and there is no other State requirement identified, the Commissioners of Public Works will then consider the business plan submitted by the Community Group.
