Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 3 Oct 2000

Vol. 523 No. 1

Written Answers. - Refugee Accommodation.

John McGuinness

Question:

469 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Finance if he has had considerations made into a second phase in the provision of mobile or dwelling units for refugee accommodation; if he will ensure that Irish companies are given the opportunity to quote for the construction of these dwellings; the companies already providing this accommodation; and the number which are fully owned Irish companies. [19957/00]

Minister of State at the Department of Finance (Mr. Cullen):

Mobile home sites capable of accommodating up to 1,000 people have been completed in three locations – Tralee, Kildare and Athlone.

The firms which supplied the mobile homes at these locations are H. Farrell and Sons, Rathcoole, County Kildare; Bunratty Mobile Homes Limited, Bunratty East, County Clare and A. Maher Caravans Limited, Dunboyne, County Meath.

This fulfils the Government decision of 28 March last in respect of the mobile home element.

Currently, the Office of Public Works is developing proposals for the construction of a number of temporary prefabricated centres. Advertisements were placed in the national media during the summer inviting suitable contractors to express an interest. Following selection of a number of candidates, tenders were invited for the first tranche of these buildings. No contracts in respect of these buildings have yet been placed.

In accordance with normal policy on this issue, Irish firms will continue to be given the opportunity to quote for work of this nature, always bearing in mind the specific requirements of the programme and the need to secure the best value for money.

Question No. 470 taken with Question No. 463.