asked the Minister for Finance the proposed costs involved in the decentralisation programme of the Department of Defence; the arrangements, if any, there are for this programme, such as the leasing agreements of the new premises; the way in which it is proposed to fund such expenditure; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Decentralisation Programme Cost.
69.
The Commissioners of Public Works are making arrangements to obtain suitable tenders from a selected number of private concerns for the provision of the accommodation required for the Department of Defence in Galway, for the Departments of the Environment, Social Welfare and Agriculture in Ballina, Sligo and Cavan respectively. It is intended that concerns tendering will meet all building costs and lease the property to the State with an option to purchase. The State will thus not be directly involved in financing these developments, but on completion of the premises and their occupation, the State will become liable for the annual rental charges.