Questions asked about future of amenities at Templemore Garda College

A report from the Internal Audit Section of the force is due to be published today.

The report into financial irregularities at the Garda College has been given to the Minister for Justice and the Garda Commissioner.

It's understood to have uncovered a number of irregularities in historical bank accounts and a non-transparent system of accounting.

It's expected the report will be made public today although much of it has already been leaked.

Independent TD for Tipperary Michael Lowry says it's his understanding there was no misappropriation of funds.

However he says the report makes a number of recommendations including that the golf course be handed over to public ownership through the OPW – he fears this may put the future of the facility in doubt as it may be targeted for building to expand the college campus. 

Deputy Lowry has also questioned why the OPW purchased farmland in Clonmore some years ago to be used as an In-Service Garda Training Facility.  To date it has not been developed in any way.

He claims the price paid was above the going rate at the time and has questioned if it will ever be used by the Gardaí. The mid-Tipp TD wants this to be examined by the Comptroller and Auditor General.