I propose to take Questions Nos. 184 and 216 together.
The Office of Public Works (OPW) is currently undertaking works on behalf of DSP at Government Offices, High Road, Letterkenny. The works involve refurbishment to facilitate the introduction of an INTREO Office facility, a key element of the Government's Pathways to Work programme. The Office of Public Works and the Department of Social Protection staff are liaising with the main contractor and specialist sub-contractors to remove, contain and encapsulate low risk asbestos flooring material identified prior to and during the refurbishment works in the building, without posing any risk to our staff or our clients, in accordance with standard practice. The removal of asbestos will follow a strict ‘Method Statement’ that forms part of the Health and Safety procedures.
On 21/02/2015, some asbestos material was removed by a specialist company and a separate specialist company carried out 20 number reassurance air tests throughout the building. Tests were carried out on all floors in both the front and rear blocks and within the temporary prefabs. All of the air tests were negative for asbestos.
Based on clear air tests and the results of the material and dust samples, the offices can be re-occupied by staff. However in the light of staff concerns, staff are currently being accommodated in alternate accommodation in the Department’s Offices at Oliver Plunkett Road, and this is being kept under constant review. Prior to re-occupancy all areas will be tested again for further assurance that there is no risk to staff or clients.