Carol Nolan (Laois-Offaly, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister of State for his response. As he rightly stated, Offaly County Council had input into the project and getting it brought forward, which was fantastic to see. I welcome that wholeheartedly. The fire crew in Clara will be very happy with the news that the project is now on the programme. The Minister of State referred to the fact that priority is give to value-for-money projects. That makes sense but my concern is that if costs rise when the yearly reassessment is being carried out, are those costs allowed for? I do not want this project to be moved down the list. It needs to happen because the current fire station is no longer fit for purpose. It has been there for decades and is past its time. I am seeking reassurance that this project will remain a top priority and that, should costs rise when the yearly reviews are being done, Clara will remain at the top of the list and not be moved down further.

See this speech in context