At a public meeting in Rathduff recently, Fine Gael Cork North Central Deputy, Dara Murphy, confirmed that a Letter of Intent will be signed next week for construction of a new Garda station in Blarney to serve the people of Blarney, Rathduff and Grenagh.

Deputy Murphy established the fact having spoken to the Minister of State at the Office of Public Works, Brian Hayes TD. Construction for the new station is expected to commence in March this year.

Mr Murphy said: "Since it was burnt to the ground in October 2008, the absence of a proper Garda station in Blarney has been a major concern for the people of Blarney, Rathduff and Grenagh.

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"I am delighted to confirm that the Government is providing capital for the building of a modern, high-tech, purpose-built Garda station for people of Blarney, Rathduff, Grenagh and the surrounding area. This development demonstrates the Government’s commitment to strengthening and improving Garda resources and to ensuring the safety of local communities.

"While Senior Garda Management has recently been able to identify several cost saving measures, it also strongly indicated a requirement for a new station in Blarney. This new station, together with Garda numbers that have been maintained locally and a year on year reduction in 10 of the 12 crime headline figures confirms this Government’s commitment to ensuring a police force that is delivering, not only for the people of Blarney but for all citizens."

(CD)