A new garda control centre for the force’s Dublin Metropolitan Region (DMR) has opened at the National Train Control Centre in Heuston Station.

The DMR control centre is responsible for all 999 call-taking and dispatching in the Dublin area.

The Department of Justice said that the new premises would strengthen the links between an Garda Síochána and public-transport operators.

Iarnród Éireann and Dublin City Council are also expected to locate their control rooms there in the near future.

Public transport providers

The department added that the location of the three control centers in the same building would help gardaí to build upon their relationships with public transport providers, particularly in the event of serious emergencies requiring co-ordinated responses.

Minister for Justice Simon Harris said: "It is crucial that anyone who finds themselves in an emergency situation has the confidence to call 999 and know that their call will be answered promptly and professionally."

The building, which cost €40 million, was funded by the National Transport Authority under the National Development Plan.