Garda station report due in May brings hope for Stepaside residents

The upcoming report on the reopening of six Garda stations brings hope for residents in Stepaside according to Dublin Rathdown TD Josepha Madigan.

In the Dáil yesterday, (Thursday), An Tánaiste Frances Fitzgerald announced that the Garda station review report is expected for publication in May. This report reviews the impact of the closure of 139 Garda stations during the recession and identifies six Garda stations to be re-opened as part of a pilot scheme on a trial basis. It is hoped that Stepaside Garda Station will be one of the re-opened stations.

“I was pleased to hear from An Tánaiste Frances Fitzgerald that she expects the final Garda station review report from the Policing Authority to be published in May. The report, signed off by the Garda Commissioner, will identify six Garda stations to be re-opened on a trial basis as part of a pilot scheme promised in the Programme for Government.

“One hundred and thirty nine Garda stations were closed during the recession and it has always been my view that the closure of Stepaside Garda station was the wrong decision. The station’s closure has damaged the local community, leaving them feeling significantly less safe and less secure. Our concerns have been borne out by a significant increase in burglaries in the area.

“I have campaigned actively throughout my time as a public representative alongside of the many Stepaside residents who have worked hard over the last number of years for their Garda station to be re-opened.

“The publication of this report and the anticipated re-opening of Stepaside Garda station would be a major victory for local residents who have worked so hard on this issue for so long. Since the station was closed in in 2013, the Stepaside community has worked tirelessly for their Garda station to be restored. I thank local campaigners for all their hard work that is hopefully, finally, going to pay off.

“The Tánaiste’s announcement yesterday bears testament to the ability of a well organised local campaign to make a difference in cooperation with local politicians. Politics works for local communities.

“If I can ever assist with any issue, my office is always more than happy to hear from local groups and I will do all I can to assist.”