Michael McGrath (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I acknowledge Deputy Conway-Walsh’s personal interest in this issue. The Minister for Transport, Deputy Eamon Ryan, will come back to her directly on this matter. I am not familiar with the granular detail of this case or the position in respect of bonds or matters of that nature. It is important that there is engagement and discussion on the issue, and I know the Minister will also want to ensure that happens.

I am very much alert to the wider issue the Deputy raised about construction price inflation. Late last year, we introduced some changes and additional flexibilities to take account of the fact that many contractors are facing increased costs. It is an issue about which I continue to work with the Office of Government Procurement in regard to public works contracts. We have a dual obligation of getting value for money for taxpayers and ensuring that projects get done and that contractors are not put into an impossible position. We are trying to marry those key objectives.

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