Vol. 503 No. 2
47 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Defence if he has satisfied himself with the condition and safety of oil tanks in the Defence Forces; if he has implemented the recommendation of the report by Jacobs Engineering Incorporated into this matter; the cost of these recommendations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9435/99]
I presume the Deputy is referring to tanks at the Naval Base, Haulbowline, which are used for the storage of fuel and lubrication oils for naval vessels. The question of rationalising and upgrading the facilities to meet current and future requirements has been under consideration. To assist the corps of engineers in assessing the condition of the installations and in formulating proposals for a works project the services of Jacobs Engineering Ltd. were retained for the provision of special technical surveys and recommendations. Consideration of the matter by my Department, taking into account the consultants' report, is continuing with a view to designing an appropriate programme of works to upgrade the oil storage facilities, including provision of new tanks where necessary and associated pipework. Provision has been made in the building and engineering subhead of the Defence Estimates for this year to enable a contract to be placed and commenced. It is anticipated that the cost of the project will be in the region of £1.2 million.
