Bailieboro station set for August opening

The new Bailieborough Garda Station is expected to become operational by the end of August following a series of setbacks and delays.

Garda management now indicate that a soft opening of the HQ, which has been revamped following a €24M investment, will take place within the coming weeks.

Superintendent Gavin O'Reilly told members of the Cavan Local Community Safety Partnership (LCSP), that a full ribbon-cutting, with the Minister for Justice Jim O'Callaghan in attendance, could happen before the end of September.

The Main Street building will be formally handed over in the coming weeks, and will serve as the divisional Crime Hub for the Louth-Cavan-Monaghan Garda Division. The redevelopment incorporates the historic National Irish Bank building, a protected structure, alongside a new three-storey, over-basement facility to the rear.

Work began in January 2022. Originally, it was expected to be completed by late 2023.

The existing station on Barrack Street, an 1880s RIC barracks, was criticised in the O’Higgins Commission report for “deplorable” conditions. It will be assessed for alternative State or community use before any sale.

Over 60 gardaí and civilians will work from the new building once operational.

Supt O'Reilly added with confidence that new officers will be assigned to Bailieborough once the new station is open.