Charlie O'Connor
Question:240 Mr. O'Connor asked the Minister for Finance the position regarding siting more Government offices in the Tallaght area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22086/03]
Written Answers. - Decentralisation Programme.
Currently, the Office of Public Works is in the process of assessing office space in the Tallaght area with a view to its possible acquisition for certain of its customer Departments or agencies. Final decisions on whether to proceed with the acquisition of the space should be made shortly and will depend, inter alia, on the suitability of the space, the rental costs involved and the availability of funds.
As the Deputy is aware, the Commissioners of Public Works are also engaged in discussions with South County Dublin County Council with a view to maximising the development potential for the State of the Tallaght Garda site. These discussions are nearing completion. An application for planning permission for the redevelopment of the site to include a new Garda station and an office complex which could be used to accommodate additional State services in the Tallaght area should be made before end 2003.