Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I accept the report, to be clear, but I am not willing to concede yet on the potential for cost reduction. The report does say that it is technically possible to reduce costs, in both the summary and on page 75. However, there is a caveat that if that was done other difficulties might arise for the project. It says that a value engineering report could be carried out, but it might create planning difficulties.

We could end up delaying the project further, which could cause other costs. When I met Mr. Fred Barry, the new chair of the board, before the PwC report, I asked him to cast a fresh pair of eyes over what cost reduction measures could be put in place. I do not want to mislead the taxpayer and I do not want to suggest I have a report that states there is significant room for savings because that is not the case. However, I want to talk to Fred Barry and I want him to prepare a report on the possibility of savings. I would also like him and his board to engage with this committee. It was said that it would be better to expend the energy and expertise of the board on making sure there are no further cost rises. We have to balance that but I do not concede the point yet.