Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Fine Gael)
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Question 24: To ask the Minister for Finance the timetable for the completion of the decentralisation programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45072/08]

Brian Lenihan Jnr (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)
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As I announced in the Budget, the Government has reviewed the Decentralisation Programme in light of the changed economic circumstances and identified priority elements on which implementation should proceed at this time. The Government's decision will result in the relocation of approximately 6,000 posts to over 40 locations outside of Dublin in the current phase of the programme. This is made up of 2,600 posts already moved, together with an additional 3,400 posts which are in train. Decisions on the timing of further work on implementation of the balance of the programme are being deferred pending a review in 2011 in light of budgetary developments.

The Decentralisation Implementation Group (DIG) and the Department of Finance will give priority to putting in place arrangements for finalising these projects over the coming period.

The October 2007 DIG report provides the most recent update of the OPW timeframes for the expected completion of permanent accommodation. A review of the property timeframes for permanent accommodation is currently being undertaken based on the OPW's experience to date in relation to property selection and acquisition, brief and design issues, tendering periods, planning issues and contractual arrangements. I expect that an update on timeframes will be finalised over the coming weeks and I will make this information available to the Deputy as soon as possible thereafter.