The Office of Public Works (OPW) is to begin discussions with Gardai over the refurbishment of Stepaside Garda Station in Dublin.

The Government announced the station is to reopen on an interim bases after it was closed in 2013.

Fine Gael TD Josepha Madigan said: "The Garda Commissioner, having analysed population and crime trends, and taking account of the availability of Stations for reuse, has recommended that Stepaside Station be reopened.

"This is a major victory for local residents who have worked so hard on this issue for so long.

"As I raised in the Dáil last March, Stepaside’s growing population means it is crucial that the community is well served by a local Garda station.

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

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"This positive result 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."

Green Party Deputy Leader Catherine Martin welcomed the Government's decision to re-open the station.

Deputy Martin said: "I am delighted to hear that Stepaside Garda Station will be re-opened. I have raised this issue continually since my election with both the Taoiseach and the Minister for Justice and Equality in the Dáil.This is a very important first step in tackling the rise in crime in the Stepaside area which has occurred since the station closed. It will provide an important 'on-the-ground' Garda presence which will help deter crime and allow residents of the Stepaside and surrounding areas to feel safer in their homes and communities.

"However, it is essential that the Government recognises that this is only the first step in tackling crime in this area. Investment in crime prevention services is needed in order to support the Gardaí in the invaluable work that they do. We need more Gardaí on the streets, we need more high speed vehicles for our Gardaí and we need cameras at crucial escape routes at M50 and Luas lines."

(CD/MH)