Office of Public Works

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 21 April 2021

Wednesday, 21 April 2021

Questions (556)

Colm Burke

Question:

556. Deputy Colm Burke asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the reason contracts relating to the transfer of lands which are urgently required for the erection of facilities for use by the Irish Coast Guard at Castlefreke, Rosscarberry, County Cork which were furnished over two years ago by the solicitors acting for Coillte to the State Solicitors Office, who is acting for the Office of Public Works, were not executed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19458/21]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Finance

I am advised by the Commissioners of Public Works (OPW) that they are continuing to liaise with the Chief State Solicitors Office (CSSO) in order to finalise conditions of contract for purchase of a site for construction of a Coast Guard station at Castlefreke, Rosscarberry, County Cork.

It was estimated that contracts would be finalised before year end 2020, however due to Covid-19 restrictions it has not been possible for personnel to travel to the site. The OPW are now finalising the planning application and are arranging to meet with the vendors land surveyor on site to survey and demarcate the physical boundaries of the site in the coming weeks.

It is anticipated that negotiations between the CSSO and the vendor’s solicitors will be completed and contract for sale signed as soon as possible thereafter.