I propose to take Questions Nos. 479 to 486, inclusive, together.
I can confirm that it is intended that access to the proposed prison development at Thornton Hall will be provided via a new road. This will have the effect of removing from the existing R130, which services Kilcoskan National School, traffic generated by the prison development both during the construction and operational phases. I should point out that the provision of an alternative access to the development was strongly urged by representatives of the local community including the school referred to following the announcement of the project in 2005. I am therefore happy to be in a position to respond positively to the wishes of the local community in this matter.
The detailed design of the interchange with the existing R130 has not yet been finalised but it is intended that it will enable both roads to function independently. I can confirm also that these proposals have been discussed in detail with the relevant officials in Fingal County Council who have been kept fully informed. The role of Fingal County Council, as the relevant local authority, will of course include reviewing the proposed arrangements for traffic to and from the prison development including the design of the access road and associated works as well as any implications for the existing local road network.
The procurement of the construction of the road and associated works is being addressed in the context of the main prison development which has been subject to an EU wide public tender competition. I cannot, for obvious commercial reasons, and in accordance with Department of Finance guidelines, provide details of the costs involved.
The Environmental Impact Assessment for the overall Thornton Hall project will, when published in the near future, address both the prison development and the access route lands on an integrated basis. The studies, surveys, etc., in relation to the proposed access route have been completed and the information is now being assessed and prepared for inclusion in the Environmental Impact Assessment, in line with the provisions of Part 4 of the Prisons Act 2007.