Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 99: To ask the Minister for Finance if the Office of Public Works intends to upgrade the Coast Guard Service facilities in Greystones, County Wicklow; his views on the conditions which the Coast Guard Service is currently expected to operate from; if the OPW will engage as a matter of priority with private contractors (details supplied) with a view to providing new, modern and fit-for-purpose facilities for this life-saving service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15850/11]

Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 100: To ask the Minister for Finance if he finds it acceptable that €5 million worth of Coast Guard Service equipment currently lies unused at a storage facility for a period of two years and that warranties are being paid on this unused equipment by the Office of Public Works; and if he will instruct the OPW to immediately engage with all relevant stakeholders in ensuring the provision of a much needed and long overdue Coast Guard Service facility where this equipment can be used (details supplied). [15851/11]

Brian Hayes (Dublin South West, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I propose to take Questions Nos. 99 and 100 together.

The site on which the proposed Coast Guard station is to be developed is owned by Wicklow County Council. It was proposed that the development company, engaged by the Local Authority, would build the Coast Guard Station as part of a larger Public Private Partnership with the Local Authority (The Greystones Harbour Project). The Chief State Solicitor has advised the Office of Public Works that this proposal does not comply with public procurement procedures. Wicklow County Council are exploring ways to resolve this issue with the developer.

The Office of Public Works does not buy Coast Guard equipment, and as such, cannot comment on warranties due on such equipment. The Office of Public Works has been advised by the Irish Coast Guard that there is no equipment earmarked for use by the Greystones Coast Guard Unit lying unused in a storage facility.