Closed Garda stations to be sold off in Westmeath and Roscommon

It's been reported that the Government is planning to sell off Garda stations which closed in in Westmeath and Roscommon in recent years.

Some 40 former stations are understood to be involved in the sale plans, including those in Ballymore, Co Westmeath, and in the South Roscommon villages of Knockcroghery and Ballyforan.

The Irish Independent reported comments from Junior Minister at the Office of Public Works, Brian Hayes, which suggested that closed Garda stations would be put up for sale in the next two months.

He said some closed stations would also be offered to community and voluntary groups for their use.

'Where opportunities come to sell buildings we will consider them. We're always looking to restore older buildings and complete office fit-outs. Many of our buildings are in very strategic locations,' said Minister Hayes.

'Some 137 garda stations have been closed and 40 will be put on the market over the next two months. The remainder will be offered to the public service, and five or six handed over to other public sector bodies while community groups may also be offered space.'