21 December 2017
By Elaine Murphy
elaine@TheCork.ie
Ballinspittle Garda station is to reopen, a Fine Gael Minister has said.
Minister for Mental Health and Older People, Cork South West TD Jim Daly, has said the community can now look forward to a safer future after working tirelessly for their Garda station to be restored.
Above: Ballinspittle is famous for its grotto, where many believe a status of Mary moved (A moving statue), but today it’s in the News for a more mundane, but very important reason.
Minister Daly said: “A report from the Garda Commissioner has found that Ballinspittle Garda station should reopen, and the Commissioner has written to the Office of Public Works to progress the opening.
“This is a Christmas wish come true for the area and means the whole community can look forward to a safer future with a dedicated Garda presence back on our streets.
“It has always been my view that the closure of Ballinspittle Garda station was the wrong decision.
“The station’s closure has damaged the local community, leaving them feeling significantly less safe and less secure.
“I have campaigned actively throughout my time as a public representative alongside the many Ballinspittle residents who have worked hard over the last number of years for their Garda station to be re-opened.
Above: The former Garda Station
“This is a major victory for local residents who have worked so hard on this issue for so long.
“This report bears testament to the ability of a well organised local campaign to make a difference in cooperation with local politicians.
“The re-opening of our Garda station shows this Government’s commitment to strengthening our community and building a sustainable future.”
