Michael Ring (Mayo, Fine Gael)

The decentralisation programme outlined by the Minister and commented on by Deputy Wall is farcical. There is a development in Kiltimagh and I ask the Minister to look at that facility to see if it is suitable for decentralisation, even on a short-term basis, until the site in Charlestown has been bought and developed with the required planning permission.

The Minister has said there is no cost factor but there must be a cost for the renting of property and bringing staff from all the different parts of the country. I ask the Minister to look at the site in Kiltamagh in County Mayo and try to bring all staff into one location. Much State investment has gone into the site, although it is owned by a private company, IRD. It is prepared to rent it or give it to the State on the basis that the State would maintain it just to get jobs into County Mayo. Will the Minister consider having a look at the site?

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