As part of the decentralisation programme, it has been decided that 250 departmental staff will decentralise to Carlow, 300 Enterprise Ireland staff to Shannon, 250 FÁS staff to Birr, 110 Health and Safety Authority staff to Thomastown and 140 National Standards Authority of Ireland staff to Arklow.
With regard to my Department's staff, an examination of options is being considered, and a decision on the final composition of sections to be decentralised has not yet been made. In that context, it cannot be stated at this time that buildings are to be vacated. The Office of Public Works is responsible for leased office space for my Department and the rents paid, the termination dates and any financial penalties for lease breaking are matters for that office.
Based on 300 staff of Enterprise Ireland relocating to Shannon, it is estimated that approximately 60,000 to 80,000 sq. ft. of accommodation will be required. Enterprise Ireland's leased accommodation in Dublin is spread across three locations IPC House, Merrion Hall, and Wilton Park House. Enterprise Ireland also accommodates staff at its Glasnevin site, which is owned by the agency.
The annual rent and lease expiry dates are as follows:
