State Properties

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 14 June 2022

Tuesday, 14 June 2022

Ceisteanna (435, 436)

Bernard Durkan

Ceist:

435. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the issues at the Chief State Solicitor’s Office that are holding up the transfer of two former Garda stations in County Leitrim (details supplied) to the local authority that in turn has agreed to lease the buildings to the local community which already has been allocated funding under the town and village renewal scheme 2022 to develop said buildings for use by various local groups in the community; if she will clarify as to when the legal transfer will be completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30793/22]

Bernard Durkan

Ceist:

436. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform when he expects that the transfer of two former Garda stations in County Leitrim (details supplied) to the local authority will take place; if he will provide any comfort to the local community that already has been allocated funding under the town and village renewal scheme 2022 to develop said buildings for use by various local groups in the community and that is concerned about the timeframe to complete its project as per its scheme application conditions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30794/22]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform

I propose to take Questions Nos. 435 and 436 together.

I understand that my officials engaged with local authorities in relation to an option to lease a number of Garda stations that were due to be disposed. Subsequently, agreement was reached with Leitrim and Roscommon County Councils to lease or acquire five former Garda stations.

As the deputy is aware, each property requires a level of due diligence and legalities that can be complex and time consuming.

However, I am advised by my officials that the Chief State Solicitor’s Office are currently finalising the detail of the Lease Agreements between the Commissioners and Leitrim County Council in respect of the Keshcarrigan and Dromahair properties. As soon as these Agreements are finalised they will issue to the Council for execution.

Question No. 436 answered with Question No. 435.