James Browne
Ceist:106. Deputy James Browne asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the position regarding a use of a building (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26090/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraThursday, 24 September 2020
Ceisteanna (106)
Freagraí scríofa
I am advised by my officials that the former Garda station on Roche’s Road, Wexford was closed on 22nd September 2017, following the relocation of An Garda Síochána to the newly built station at Mulgannon Road, Wexford. My officials began the process of seeking alternative State use for the property in line with its policy on vacant properties.
My officials have made many efforts to accommodate requests to take the property under Lease/Licence over the last three years. Property Management in the OPW had agreed to enter into a Lease arrangement with the Wexford Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Service for part of the property. This arrangement did not proceed however when the Support Service advised my officials on the 19th February 2019 that they had secured alternative accommodation in Wexford.
I recently met with parties in Wexford who have expressed an interest in acquiring the former Garda station property. The adjoining Care Centre is now exploring the potential of a feasibility study to assess the viability of licensing the property with the support of Wexford County Council. Both parties have agreed to revert to the OPW as soon as possible.
While discussions on sourcing a possible occupant are advancing, OPW has engaged the services of a contractor to remove overgrowth of weeds and to complete other routine tidying on the site.
In the event that the licensing proposal referenced is not considered viable by the Centre or the Council, my officials will proceed with the disposal of the property by public auction.