Shane Ross faces fresh ‘stroke’ claim over Stepaside

Transport Minister Shane Ross is facing fresh claims that he pulled a “political stroke” by ensuring Stepaside Garda Station was re-opened after a senior garda officer said the facility “would not have been my number one priority”.

Assistant Garda Commissioner for Dublin Pat Leahy admitted the situation at least six times during a meeting with TDs yesterday, pointedly saying he has “more pressing needs” and would have opened other stations if he had the choice.

Speaking during the Dáil Public Accounts Committee, Acting Garda Commissioner Donall Ó Cualáin said Stepaside and five other stations closed during the economic crash would be re-opened.