Future of Garda College secure

Lowry welcomes outcome of review

Tipperary TD Michael Lowry has said the future of Templemore Garda College is secure following confirmation this week that there is no necessity for a second training college.

National garda training requirements had been under review for several months amid speculation that the Government intended to build a new college near Dublin and move some facilities away from Templemore.

But the Government at its cabinet meeting on Tuesday of this week accepted and endorsed the Breslin Review, which confirms that the Garda College in Templemore remains the home and principal base for all garda recruit training.

This move was welcomed by Deputy Lowry, who stated: “Templemore has the capabilities, the knowledge and experience to continue as the main training centre of excellence.

“The report endorses the need for ongoing investment in Templemore to maximise capacity for trainees.

“It also recommends the necessity to upgrade facilities at Tallaght, which is an existing outreach centre under the control and direction of Templemore Garda College. The report recommends formalised enhanced relationships within regional based universities of technology to leverage external academic expertise and accredited programmes.

“The report concludes that recruitment growth and garda capacity can be supported through continued investment in Templemore alongside its satellite facilities in Tallaght.

“These facilities remain part of, and are supported by the Garda College structure.

“I am pleased that the Government has formally confirmed the future status and structures of Templemore training college,” Deputy Lowry said.

“I am currently in discussions with the Minister for Justice and the Minister at the Office of Public Works about further investment of the campus with particular emphasis on the need for additional on-campus accommodation and classroom space.”