Shane McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael)
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Question 999: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the purchase price of the additional lands acquired to facilitate the provision of an alternative road access to the Thornton Hall prison site; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20435/07]

Brian Lenihan Jnr (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)
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The question of providing an alternative access to the proposed prison site was raised by members of the local community with my predecessor following the purchase of the Thornton Hall site in 2005. Notwithstanding the fact that the existing access road had been assessed as suitable and of adequate capacity to service the proposed development, it was agreed to afford full consideration to any alternative proposals received.

Subsequently, following approaches from local landowners, a viable alternative access route to the site was identified. In addition to addressing the perceived concerns of local residents in relation to the existing access road, it was recognised that a separate designated access to the site would greatly facilitate the construction phase of the development as well as removing all future traffic generated by the prison complex from the existing local road. The cost of the lands in question amounts to €1,305,000 for 8.7 acres which equates to €150,000 per acre. I am pleased that my Department has been able to respond positively to the concerns expressed by local residents.

Shane McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael)
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Question 1000: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when the environmental impact statement will be completed and published for the Thornton Hall prison development; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20436/07]

Brian Lenihan Jnr (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)
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The Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for the proposed prison development at Thornton Hall, County Dublin is being prepared in accordance with the provisions of the Prison Act, 2007. I expect to receive the EIA towards the end of October or early November 2007. The Prisons Act 2007 provides that a copy of the EIA will be made available to any interested party.