Check against delivery

 

Topical Issue Debate

 

I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Deputy for raising this important matter.

The Deputy will be aware that the programme of refurbishment and replacement of Garda accommodation throughout the country is determined on the basis of accommodation priorities which are established by An Garda Síochána.

The provision of Garda accommodation, including refurbishment works, site purchases, the provision of new buildings and the examination of potential sites for the location of Garda stations, comes under the remit of the Office of Public Works which has responsibility for capital expenditure on Garda accommodation.

Accordingly, Garda accommodation projects are progressed in the context of the availability of funding within the OPW Vote and in the light of the priority attached to each project by the Garda authorities.

In that context, I am advised that proposals for refurbishment works at Garda stations throughout the State, including Newcastle West Garda Station, are examined on an ongoing basis. Any such proposals are, of course, progressed in the context of An Garda Síochána's identified accommodation priorities and the availability of funding within the vote of the Office of Public Works.

I am advised by the Garda authorities that the allocation of all Garda resources, including accommodation, transport and personnel, is subject to ongoing analysis and review to ensure that the best possible use is made of available resources.

In that context, the Deputy will be aware that I recently announced a further capital investment of €42 million in 2015 to provide for the construction of a number of new Garda Divisional Headquarters.

Plans for the construction of three new Garda Divisional Headquarters in Galway, Wexford and Kevin Street in Dublin are currently being progressed by the Office of Public Works in conjunction with An Garda Síochána.

I am advised that the procurement process, in relation to all three projects, is at an advanced stage. I am further advised that, subject to the successful completion of each procurement process, work is expected to begin on each development over the coming months.

The development of three new Garda Divisional Headquarters represents a very significant investment in Garda infrastructure. This investment, when taken in conjunction with the additional funding of €10 million for Garda transport in 2014/2015 announced in the recent Budget is an indication of my commitment to ensure that An Garda Síochána are, to the greatest extent possible, provided with the necessary resources to provide an efficient and effective policing service throughout the State.

Ends