Proposed Garda clinics more expensive than stations, says ASGI

The Association of Garda Sergeants and Inspectors is today branding proposals aimed at reforming the policing model as "bordering on farcical".

The plans could see venues like community halls being hired twice a week to stage so-called 'Garda clinics'.

They is set to replace smaller garda stations, which were closed as part of cost-cutting measures.

ASGI president John Redmond said that the move would make it more difficult to operate and does not make financial sense.

"If we're talking about some of the smaller stations which we have flagged based on management figures of €3,000 a year to run, even if you are to hire that community hall for €30 for each of those two occasions per week, you are indeed surpassing the cost that has been there in the past to run a dedicated police station," he said.