Ms Rosemary Collier:

The estimate is fully assessed by the quantity surveyor. They assess it against the tendered rates on the original contract for the measured items. They then assess the rates that have been received in respect of the mini-tenders that happened under the contract. They do a very detailed assessment and then make a recommendation to the OPW in relation to the cost estimate we have received. As I say, the relevant officer in this scenario was a senior architect who was overseeing this contract and this job and it is reviewed by them. The instruction to proceed is then issued at that point. This process would have all been carried out within the team. That is in line with standard OPW process and procedure on jobs.