Unused Garda houses in Monaghan
Leonard sought approval for Monaghan County Council to buy and let unused OPW houses built for Gardaí. O’Brien said purchase was permitted if the homes were suitable and noted councils were not making much use of the policy.
There are Office of Public Works houses in Monaghan which were built for gardai but which are not now in use and we are awaiting approval from the Minister's Department for Monaghan County Council to purchase and let them. What is the position in this regard?
Comment on this
As I indicated to Deputy Daly, local authorities are entitled to do this. I am sure the Department will wish to ensure that the houses are suitable and, if that is the case, there will be no problem. This is part of our policy at present but, unfortunately, local authorities are not availing of this.