Joe McHugh (Donegal, Fine Gael)
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The Deputy will be aware that this project has been devolved for delivery to Westmeath County Council (WCC).

The Deputy will also be aware that officials in my Department continue to support WCC in its engagement with the relevant contractor on progressing this project, including through a dispute resolution process under the Public Works Contract.

It does now seem likely that the project may not be completed until very early in the new year as it has not proven possible to address some technical issues in a shorter timeframe. I can also say that the speed of completion of this project is directly related to the level of resources employed on site, that resource levels have increased lately, and that a continued high level of resources is essential for the timely completion of this project. I can assure the Deputy that we are focussed on ensuring that all issues are progressed as quickly as possible while also ensuring that the quality and integrity of the project is fully protected.