Question from Councillor Sean McDermott:
What progress has been made on the closed Garda Stations in Leitrim in relation to been acquired by community groups?
Minutes:
What progress has been made on the closed Garda Stations in Leitrim in relation to been acquired by community groups?
Councillor Sean McDermott asked for an update on what progress is being made in relation to closed Garda Stations and he acknowledged work to date by Leitrim County Council.
Councillor Mary Bohan said there are a number of community groups who are willing to take over these closed garda stations. Councillor Bohan said it was unanimously agreed by the members of the Manorhamilton Municipal District that Drumkeerin Garda Station should not go for auction as this is a relatively new building and this resolution was sent to the Minister for Justice and An Garda Siochana.
Chief Superintendent Glacken said An Garda Siochana do not own Garda Stations - they are the property of the OPW. Chief Superintendent Glacken outlined that Minister O’Donovan has advised that 4 auctions of Garda Stations are to be held in 2021, however, he is unaware of what specific stations will be the subject of auction. Chief Superintendent Glacken said he did get a query in relation to Glenfarne Garda Station, and he has responded to it. He also outlined that re-opening Drumkeeran Garda Station is under consideration dependant on resources, and he will contact both the Garda Commissioner and OPW in this regard and revert to Councillor Bohan on the matter.
Councillor Mary Bohan thanked Chief Superintendent Glacken for his response, outlining that it is very important that there is a Garda presence especially with the number of burglaries that have taken place recently in this area.
Ms Mary Quinn confirmed that Leitrim County Council are currently engaging with OPW in relation to leasing Keshcarrigan and Dromahair Garda Stations for use by community groups. Ms Quinn advised that no correspondence has been received from the OPW regarding Glenfarne Garda Station and will seek a further update in this regard.
Councillor Sean McDermott said he hoped Glenfarne Garda Station would be made available to the Community for their use.
Councillor Sean McDermott thanked Chief Superintendent Glacken for the work carried out around the Glenfarne Garda Station.