Robert Dowds (Dublin Mid West, Labour)
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I turn to the property over which Forfás has leasehold, particularly Carrisbrook House in Ballsbridge, where the current occupancy rate is only 15%. On a lease that is due to expire in 2034, it is currently costing Forfás €1.2 million per annum in vacant space. I know there is a minor problem with Knockmaun House in Mount Street, but that is obviously much less significant in terms of the waste of money. Is Forfás directly responsible for those buildings, does it come under the Office of Public Works, or is there joint function in that regard? I understand there is a particular problem with Carrisbrook House because this Israeli Embassy is there. As that is an embassy that requires huge security it may be deterring potential tenants. It grieves me to see that kind of money going down the drain especially given that the other day we had to introduce cuts, some of which are quite painful to people.

It raises a more general question, which Mr. Shanahan may not be able to answer, of that being a problem right across the public service. Is there any way to get over that problem? I gather this house was put up for sale a few years ago and could have been sold for €12 million, which would equate to ten annual payments for this vacant space. The public would find that hard to take. It raises questions over the extent of the problem.