Ballinspittle Garda station
Deputy Collins sought a date for reopening and staffing Ballinspittle Garda station under the programme for Government. Deputy Flanagan said he wanted the commitment fulfilled, that negotiations were under way with the Garda Síochána and OPW, and that costings and plans were progressing.
Page 101 of A Programme for a Partnership Government states the Government will reopen a number of Garda stations. Six such reopenings were announced subsequently, one of which was Ballinspittle Garda station in west Cork. I have asked this question repeatedly but will the Taoiseach tell us today when will Ballinspittle Garda station be reopened and be fully manned so as to protect the people of the Ballinspittle community?
Comment on this
I am keen that the commitment be complied with fully. There are ongoing negotiations between my Department, the Garda Síochána and the Office of Public Works to ensure that the six pilot Garda stations will reopen at the earliest opportunity. Costings have been prepared and plans are proceeding.