Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 13 Nov 2002

Vol. 557 No. 2

Written Answers. - Child Care Services.

Bernard Allen

Question:

240 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Health and Children further to Parliamentary Question No. 898 of 9 October 2002, the reason the Southern Health Board has offered only ?120,000 for a house valued at ?220,000 to facilitate the pre-school and crèche; and the value which was placed on the house by the Valuation Office. [21838/02]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin)

The property referred to by the Deputy is situated at the entrance to Roseville House and was newly built privately and was on the market for sale. My Department approved funding for the Southern Health Board to purchase, finish and furnish this house for use as a temporary replacement pre-school and crèche once Roseville House is demolished. In the long-term the house would be utilised for the child care services in the area.

The health board in accordance with usual procedures asked the Valuation Office to value the property. The property was valued at €155,000. This amount was offered to the vendor but was refused. An increased offer of €170,000 was made due to the importance of acquiring the house. This offer was also rejected.