Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)

The honest answer is when we are ready. We are not going to rush the process because I want to ensure the Department is efficiently run. We employ a large number of staff in Portlaoise and they are doing a good job. I would like to consolidate them under one, two or three roofs rather than seven if that can reduce costs. It will take time to work out how we can best achieve that objective but we will be completely transparent and people will have the relevant information as soon as it is available.

NAMA's job is to maximise the return on the properties it controls. If it has a role to play in regard to properties in Portlaoise I am happy to engage with it. I am not aware of any ongoing conversation between my Department and NAMA, however.

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