As the Deputy will be aware, the decentralisation implementation group, chaired by Mr. Phil Flynn, in its first report on 31 March 2004 recommended that each organisation participating in the decentralisation programme should prepare its own implementation plan and submit it to the group. My Department has submitted its initial implementation plan which addresses the main issues arising from the decentralisation of the Department to Killarney.
The plan identifies the main risks associated with the move and outlines strategies to mitigate such risks. I am particularly conscious of the issues such as service and business continuity, efficiency and effectiveness and financial implications and intend that strategies are put in place to minimise any such risks. The plan also sets out the significant advantages for the organisation and for the staff who will move to Killarney.
At this stage, it is not possible to undertake a cost benefit analysis of the decentralisation of my Department. The further development of the plan as additional information becomes available in respect of the issues relating to people, property and business as identified in the Flynn report will entail appropriate cost benefit and risk analysis of the decentralisation of my Department to Killarney.