asked the Minister for Finance when it is expected that work will commence on the construction of the proposed new Garda divisional headquarters in Monaghan.

Preparation of contract documents, comprising detailed drawings and bills of quantities is at an advanced stage. It is hoped to be in a position to go to tender in early summer.

Construction will begin as soon as possible thereafter.

Is the Minister of State aware that this station accommodates about 90 people when it was meant to accommodate about a quarter of that number? There are temporary buildings in the yard which are used to accommodate different units of the force. We have been told that the building is being redesigned.

On a number of occasions schemes had to be altered and redesigned even when they had reached an advanced stage, because of extensive alterations in Garda requirements. In April 1982 discussions were held with representatives of the Department of Justice and the Garda which resulted in a definite date being settled. Contract documents are at an advanced stage and it is hoped to go to tender early in the summer.

Would the Minister ensure that in future buildings will be designed so as to take account of increases in the number of gardaí rather than redesigning the buildings at a later stage?

That is a separate question.