Timmy Dooley (Fianna Fail)

I join with my colleagues in welcoming the Minister of State to the House. He has been here on a number of occasions and his willingness to make himself available is welcome. I support the courageous initiative he has undertaken and on which action has been needed for a long time. The Office of Public Works has a considerable asset bank. At a time when it is essential to ensure that all elements of financial management are under control, it is critical to sweat those State-owned assets. Any review of State property is likely to give rise to the disposal of elements which are not of immediate use because of geographic location. The first property the Minister of State intends to put up for tender is the facility at Lad Lane. Due to its location and the zoning of the area, there is an opportunity to realise a substantial amount of money for the State. We do not have a precise figure, nor do I expect the Minister of State to quantify it at this stage.