Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 17 February 2005
130 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if concerns have been expressed to him on the inflationary effect on the cost of land acquisition which the purchase by the State of lands at Thorntown, County Dublin has had or is likely to have; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5395/05]
View answerI have received correspondence on behalf of a company expressing concern about the price paid for the site at Thorntown. However from an initial examination it would appear that the company in question do not seem to be aware that I do not have power to compulsory purchase land for a new prison or that a different planning regime applies to prisons. The Deputy will be aware that planning issues have a significant influence on the market value of land. I am satisfied that the purchase of the land at Thornton for the new prison complex represents good value for the taxpayer.
