asked the Minister for Energy if all contractors employed on contracts by his Department prior to 1 January 1989, have been paid in respect of works undertaken in 1988; if not, the total amount of payments outstanding; the number of contractors and suppliers to whom moneys are still owed by his Department; if these payments are likely to be made by Coillte; if not, by whom they will be made; when they will be made; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Payment of Contractors.
189.
There are no outstanding payments due by my Department to contractors employed on contracts prior to 1 January 1989.
Coilte Teoranta are liable for any outstanding payments due for work carried out or supplies received prior to 1 January 1989 which relate to functions now proper to the company. I am informed by the company that there has been some delay in making payments, due mainly to the changeover from the procedures used in Government accounting to commercial accounts. The company expect that all payments will be made by the end of this week.