Block J at Garda Headquarters was officially re-opened on Friday following the full refurbishment of the 1,770m², two-storey, historic building and protected structure.

Part of the original build of Garda HQ since their completion in 1842, Block J remained as a barracks/training building for recruits up until 1964 when Templemore took over as the Garda Training College.

With administrative demands at an all-time high, Block J was quickly repurposed as office space and remained in use until recently as the base for Garda ICT.

Following the refurbishment project, the block will now be home to the Roads Policing Bureau, the Community Engagement Bureau and Youth Diversion Bureau.

Justice, home affairs and migration minister Jim O’Callaghan said: “The refurbishment of the historic J Block symbolises the work carried out by gardaí.

“This restored and repurposed building will facilitate the work of specialised units who can respond to the shifting challenges faced by gardaí and the people they work to keep safe.

“While An Garda Síochána is rooted in community and tradition, and we must not lose sight of that, it is important to provide gardaí with modern, fit-for-purpose facilities to allow them to deliver the world class policing service we require.”

Garda commissioner Drew Harris said: “An Garda Síochána is delighted to be in a position to officially re-open the building which will continue to support the delivery of policing operations in An Garda Síochána for many more years to come.”