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On July 17, 2025, Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration Jim O’Callaghan TD and Minister of State at the Office of Public Works Kevin ‘Boxer’ Moran TD attended the formal reopening of J Block at Garda Headquarters, Phoenix Park, Dublin. The historic building has undergone an extensive restoration to provide a modern working environment for specialist policing units.
🏗️ Heritage-Led Modernisation
Originally constructed in 1842, J Block served as a Garda training facility until 1964 and later as administrative and ICT office space. The latest refurbishment transformed the 1,770 sq.m protected structure to house:
- Roads Policing Bureau
- Community Engagement Bureau
- Youth Diversion Bureau
- Office of the Assistant Commissioner for Roads Policing and Community Engagement
🔧 Refurbishment Highlights
Key restoration and modernization works included:
- Repair and restoration of 80 historic sash windows and original masonry
- Replacement and reinforcement of the roof structure and flashings
- Restoration of eight chimneys with period-accurate materials
- Sensitive internal reorganisation to deliver modern office space while preserving heritage
- Removal of outdated extensions and prefabricated units
- Installation of an energy-efficient heat pump system and insulation upgrades
🗣️ Government Statements
Minister O’Callaghan emphasized the government’s €2.4 billion investment in policing under Budget 2025:
“This project reflects our commitment to equipping An Garda Síochána with modern, fit-for-purpose infrastructure while respecting its community roots and history.”
Minister Moran praised the OPW’s collaboration with the Department of Justice and Gardaí:
“J Block stands today as a testament to the value of conserving heritage assets to serve essential functions in a modern policing environment.”
Garda Commissioner Drew Harris noted J Block’s evolution and enduring significance:
“This building now supports vital units responding to today’s policing challenges, while maintaining a strong connection to the legacy of Irish law enforcement.”
The reopening marks a major milestone in the Garda station modernisation programme under the National Development Plan, with continued investment planned in digitalisation, fleet upgrades, and infrastructure development.
