asked the Minister for Justice if having regard to the urgent need for some suitable form of heating in the living quarters of Rathfarnham Garda station, he will have such installed at an early date; and, if so, when.

The living quarters are equipped with fireplaces.

I am informed by the Commissioners of Public Works that electric heating appliances could be supplied at this station at short notice but so far the local gardaí have refused to accept responsibility for the cost of current consumed which is a normal arrangement in such stations.

Surely it is a function of the Minister to provide elementary heating in most Garda stations now? This should, in fact, now be a formal State responsibility.

No, the Deputy misunderstands the matter.

I appreciate that they are living in quarters.

There is nothing to stop these men, if they so desire, from going out into digs. They are getting this facility for £1 a week. If they do not want to have fires that is their own affair the same as if they were in flats or elsewhere. It is a matter for them. They are free, white and 21.

Anything is good enough for members of the Garda.

No.

That is the Minister's attitude.

The Garda also know the Deputy's attitude when they had the misfortune to have him minding the Minister for Justice over there.

That is why the Conroy Report condemned the Minister.

Deputy Ryan should allow Questions to continue. Question No. 39.