Tom Parlon (Laois-Offaly, Progressive Democrats)

As for resolving some of the issues that arose, most issues with the Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources were dealt with directly, as were some issues with Bord Iascaigh Mhara, BIM.

As for the response, a total of 184 jobs have been earmarked for Clonakilty under the Government's decentralisation programme, with 91 from the Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources and 93 from BIM. The Office of Public Works has purchased a three-acre site in the town and tenders have been invited for the design and construction of the new permanent offices. The tenders were due back to my office on 31 March. We have to allow a certain period for tenders as we are obliged to be totally transparent in all our dealings. The successful tenderer will lodge a planning application later this year and construction should commence in early 2007, assuming the planning process is not delayed.

Given the high level of interest from civil servants to relocate to Clonakilty, the Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources has asked the OPW to source temporary offices to accommodate an advance party of staff until the permanent building is completed. The Public Appointments Service has indicated that a total of 176 expressions of interest from across the public service have been received for the posts in Clonakilty, 140 for the Department and 36 for the BIM positions. Following an extensive search for temporary office space in the town, the OPW has identified offices in the Clonakilty area that can accommodate up to 50 staff immediately and further suitable office space that could be acquired later in the year for an additional 50 to 60 staff.

The Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources has indicated its approval for the identified temporary accommodation and the proposal has been considered by the decentralisation group. The matter has been referred to the Department of Finance for sanction to acquire the space. This evening I checked with senior officials in the Department, who said the Minister has not yet given his sanction. They expect he will but that is a matter for the Minister.

When the business case for the interim accommodation has been evaluated and agreed by the Department of Finance, the OPW will proceed with the negotiations to lease the required space.

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