Jim O'Keeffe (Cork South West, Fine Gael)
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Question 56: To ask the Minister for Finance if concerns have been expressed to him on the inflationary effect on the cost of land acquisition which the purchase by the State of lands at Thorntown, County Dublin, has had or is likely to have; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5396/05]

Tom Parlon (Laois-Offaly, Progressive Democrats)
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The Commissioners of Public Works are not aware of any such concerns being expressed to the Minister for Finance.

Jim O'Keeffe (Cork South West, Fine Gael)
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Question 57: To ask the Minister for Finance the procedures which must be complied with before it sanctions or approves the discharge by a Government Department of several million euros for the purchase of lands; if he will confirm whether or not independent valuations are required; the extent to which surveys are required; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5398/05]

Tom Parlon (Laois-Offaly, Progressive Democrats)
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Client Departments-offices initially make a business case to the Department of Finance seeking sanction in principle to approach OPW with a request for accommodation for specific requirements. Efforts to identify a property solution, based on a detailed brief of requirements are then initiated. All options are fully explored, that is, the State portfolio, locally, on the market, the wider public service and advertisements are placed if necessary. A full technical evaluation of all potentially suitable options is completed, which can comprise reports from architects, engineers — structural, and mechanical and electrical, fire and security. Valuation reports are commissioned from either staff valuers or consultant valuers on suitable options. Planning advice and archaeology reports are also sought where appropriate. Title is checked by the Chief State Solicitor. On the basis of the relevant technical, valuation and other reports, a preferred option is identified. Sanction is then sought from the Department of Finance to proceed with the acquisition.

Jim O'Keeffe (Cork South West, Fine Gael)
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Question 58: To ask the Minister for Finance the involvement and steps which were taken by his Department in the purchase of lands at Thorntown County Dublin on behalf of the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5399/05]

Tom Parlon (Laois-Offaly, Progressive Democrats)
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A representative of the Office of Public Works was a member of the procurement committee set up by the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform to oversee and manage the purchase of a site for the new prison development in north County Dublin.