Niall Collins (Limerick West, Fianna Fail)
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Question 172: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance the position regarding compensation claims by persons (details supplied) lodged against the Office of Public Works. [35553/07]

Noel Ahern (Dublin North West, Fianna Fail)
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Compensation claims on behalf of the individuals in question have been submitted to the Commissioners of Public Works. Correspondence and discussions have taken place over a number of years between OPW Valuation Staff and the Agricultural Advisor for the people in question but, to date, no agreement on compensation levels has been agreed.

All compensation claims are considered under the relevant provisions of the Arterial Drainage Acts under which damage and benefit to a holding are taken into account. In default of agreement being reached, the claim may be deferred to independent and binding arbitration. I would point out that claimants are also entitled to claim fair and reasonable costs of valuation and legal advice as an element of the damages.