asked the Minister for Justice if, in view of the fact that the Gárda Síochána in Tullamore are housed in the old County Infirmary, he proposes to have a barracks built in Tullamore and, if so, when it is intended to commence same.

The premises now occupied by the Gárda Síochána at Tullamore are not suitable for permanent occupation. Whether a suitable barracks can more conveniently be provided by the erection of a new building or by the acquisition and adaptation of an existing building is a question for the Commissioners of Public Works, who are responsible for the provision of barracks for the Gárda. I understand that the Commissioners have not yet reached a decision on that point.

Arising out of the Minister's reply, may I ask if his Department has made any representaplianc tions to the Board of Works on this matter?

Yes, I have made representations.