Vol. 563 No. 1
249 Mr. J. O'Keeffe asked the Minister for Finance the position in relation to the programme for decentralisation of Government offices outside of Dublin; his views on whether Bandon is a suitable location for such a Government office; and if the town will be considered accordingly. [7186/03]
The Government remains committed to moving forward the progressive decentralisation of Government offices and agencies. As I have said previously, a wide range of important issues, including the national spatial strategy, have to be considered before a final decision is taken on this matter. It is vital that all involved are consulted, be they staff concerned about their futures or Departmental managements concerned about the delivery of the public services for which they have responsibility. Given these wide ranging considerations it is not possible for me to state, at this time, when the Government will be in a position to take a decision on the issue of decentralisation. However, all of the submissions and representations which have been received by my Department, including the case made for Bandon, will be given consideration as part of the deliberative process.
