Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I wish to raise two issues. The Taoiseach is saying that further due diligence remains to be done and the cost will be multiples of what was originally envisaged. I note that in response to a question by Deputy Dooley last week the Minister, Deputy Bruton, stated that he wanted to meet the two additional companies. Given that in October we were told a decision would be made within weeks, is there now a significant question mark over whether the plan will be rolled out?

The Minister for Finance, Deputy Donohoe, made clear to Deputy Cowen that the extra costs would impact on other projects in the national development plan, NDP. He stated that the Government would have to move capital around within the plan, which would impact on other projects. Notwithstanding sensitivities relating to the tender process, can we expect some precision regarding the costs of the Enet submission if it were to be accepted by Government?

When can we expect a decision from Government? The Minister, Deputy Bruton, has consistently said that a decision would be made in the coming weeks. However, he has been saying that since early November and it is now almost March. The House should be given an indication as to when a recommendation will go to the Government and a decision made. In addition, there should be a precise public indication of the likely cost of the NBP, as now envisaged.

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