asked the Minister for Justice the reasons for the delay in the building of housing accommodation for members of the Garda Síochána in Blarney, Cobh and Midleton, County Cork; if he is aware that these houses have been in the hands of contractors for over 12 months; and if he will now ensure that the clauses of the contracts are enforced.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Housing for East Cork Gardaí.
121.
The Garda houses at these centres are being provided by the National Building Agency.
Of the six houses to be provided at Cobh, four were completed and occupied last April, and the remaining two last July.
The Agency have informed me that they expect that the four houses at Midleton will be completed within the next few weeks. Work has not yet commenced on the construction of the three houses at Blarney, but I am assured by the Agency that they are doing everything to have the houses erected as soon as practicable.
Would the Minister say on what date were the contracts entered into?
The work has commenced.
You cut the foundation for the Blarney houses over 12 months ago.
I am assured that the Blarney houses will start in due course.
Have you a penalty clause?
We have that.
Then enforce it.
That is a matter for discretion.