The programme for Government states that the Government will launch a pilot scheme to reopen six Garda stations in rural and urban areas. I have before me the response to a parliamentary question from Deputy Alan Farrell in respect of the reopening of Rush Garda station. It states that the Garda Commissioner is responsible for the efficient use of resources available to the Garda Síochána and that the Minister, Deputy Flanagan, has no role in the matter. That includes responsibility for the opening and closing of Garda stations.

At today's meeting of the Committee of Public Accounts, acting Commissioner Ó Cualáin confirmed that the decision to reopen Stepaside Garda station and not to reopen Rush Garda station was a political one and that the Government took the decision on the criteria to reopen Stepaside. He explained this by saying that his office did what it was asked to do. I ask the Minister to explain the manner in which this is not a political decision and to tell us who took the decision to reopen Stepaside Garda station and not the others, particularly in light of the fact that the Garda Síochána clearly did not take it.

As the Deputy has rightly pointed out, the programme for Government committed to a pilot scheme to reopen six Garda stations. The Garda was asked to undertake an analysis to identify locations for the pilot scheme. An interim report has been given to the Government. It recommends the opening of Stepaside and indicates that the process could be extended to other locations and that its final report would indicate the position in respect of those other locations, namely, Leighlinbridge, Donard and Rush. I understand this reflects population trends and operational reasons as to why these areas need the additional support. I understand the final report will come to Government shortly.