asked the Minister for Agriculture when his Department will provide blood testing facilities in Cork; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Cork Brucellosis Blood Testing Laboratory.
5.
Arrangements for the provision of facilities for brucellosis blood testing in Cork are being pursued with all possible speed. The necessary preliminary work, which took longer than expected, is now almost completed and the way should be clear to commence building in December. On this basis I anticipate that brucellosis blood testing will be in operation in the new laboratory before the end of 1981.
Is the Minister aware that as long as I am in this House, over a three year period, the delays have been extraordinary? Can we now expect a positive assurance that facilities are being provided, because we did have promises before about premises being acquired?
The delay was longer than expected. I accept that. But I can give the positive assurance asked for to the Deputy. Work will begin in December.
What was the reason for the delay?
Tenders, contracts, specifications, et cetera, et cetera.
That is not an answer.
That is the reason for the delay.
The Minister does not know the answer. "Et cetera, et cetera” is not an answer.
I have given the answer.
"Et cetera, et cetera” is not an answer to anything.