Fine Gael TD Emer Currie has called for the establishment of a second Garda training college in Dublin, arguing that the growing demands of modern policing require expanded training capacity beyond the existing facility in Templemore, County Tipperary.
Speaking in the Dáil, the Dublin West representative acknowledged the important role Templemore has played in training Garda members over the years but questioned why Ireland continues to rely on a single training college despite significant population growth and evolving policing challenges.
Currie highlighted the increasing complexity of policing in a rapidly changing society, pointing to factors such as urbanisation, technological advancements, cybercrime, and greater community diversity. She argued that these developments make a strong case for a second training centre, particularly in Dublin.
According to Currie, Blanchardstown would be an ideal location for such a facility. She described the area as one of the fastest-growing population centres in the country and noted its proximity to major educational institutions, including TU Dublin’s Blanchardstown campus. She also pointed to the area’s strong infrastructure, retail significance, and available land suitable for educational development.
Currie believes a Garda college in Blanchardstown would improve recruitment opportunities across Leinster while supporting modern training needs, including digital skills, emerging technologies, and community-focused policing. She argued that locating training within a university environment would help prepare recruits for contemporary policing challenges.
The TD has consistently campaigned for increased Garda resources in West Dublin. She noted that the Garda K District, which includes Blanchardstown, is among the busiest policing districts in the State. Despite serving a population of more than 100,000 people, the area is currently supported by only one Garda station. In comparison, she pointed out that Limerick city has three Garda stations.
Currie also highlighted the rapid residential growth in Dublin 15, where more than 8,300 homes have been built since 2012. While new communities have emerged, she said no additional Garda station has been opened to meet the area's expanding needs.
Responding to her proposal, Taoiseach Micheál Martin said the Programme for Government includes plans to expand capacity at the Garda College in Templemore. He confirmed that the possibility of establishing a second training centre is under consideration, although he stressed that Templemore would remain the primary Garda training hub.
Martin noted that Garda recruitment is progressing well, with plans to recruit approximately 5,000 new Gardaí during the lifetime of the Government. He acknowledged that additional training capacity may eventually be required as recruitment numbers continue to rise.
