asked the Minister for Finance if he is aware of the need for a new Garda barracks in Tramore, County Waterford; the progress made to date in this matter; to indicate a date at which the barracks will be built and in operation; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

I am aware of the need for a new Garda station in Tramore. A site at Market Street is being acquired from the Tramore Town Commissioners, in exchange for an area of State land at Turkey Road. Completion of the transaction has been delayed by a number of factors outside the control of the Commissioners of Public Works but the outstanding points are in the process of being cleared. I am not in a position at this stage to say when the new station will be built and in operation, but I can assure the Deputy that there will be no avoidable delay. Sketch plans of the proposed new station have already been prepared.

The remaining questions will appear on tomorrow's Order Paper.