Denis Naughten (Longford-Roscommon, Fine Gael)
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Question 217: To ask the Minister for Education and Science the status of the decentralisation to Athlone; the timetable for completion of the move; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [18985/06]

Mary Hanafin (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail)
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The date of the decentralisation of 100 posts in my Department to Athlone will be determined by the date of delivery of the office accommodation for these posts. The Office of Public Works is responsible for the delivery of this accommodation. The accommodation will be located adjacent to my Department's existing offices in Athlone.

I understand that an application for planning permission has been made for the new accommodation. I have been informed that the target date for the completion of construction and fit out of this accommodation of mid 2008 remains achievable as long as delays are not incurred in the planning and/or construction phases.