asked the Minister for Local Government if, in view of the fact that plans for the Knockfree housing scheme, Cork City, were approved by his Department almost a year ago, that development work is in progress, that working drawings are practically completed and that bills of quantities are well advanced, he will state why a change of plans is now suggested by his Department.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Knockfree (Cork) Housing Scheme.
The cost of the scheme was estimated by the Corporation in October, 1955, to be £504,360. In September last the corporation submitted a revised estimate of cost showing an increase of over £30,000 in the previous estimate. In view of this heavy increase and having regard to the need for availing of all possible economies in the erection of local authority houses, the Department made suggestions for revisions of the approved plans and specifications. I am advised that these revisions should result in a substantial reduction in the cost of the scheme and should not unduly delay the commencement of building work.
Is the Minister not aware that whatever savings may be made through acceptance of the original plans, they will be more than offset by the duplication of work in the office of the City Architect and in the office of the City Surveyor.
I am aware that it is our duty to the tenants who will be paying for these houses to see that they are built as cheaply as possible.
The Minister is also aware that he has no money.