The estimated cost incurred to date by my Department on decentralisation projects in Sligo, Leterkenny and Longford is £3,296,000. The breakdown of this figure is set out in a tabular statement which will be made available to the Deputy.
As regards payments to staff for relocation, personnel who move under the programme do so on a voluntary basis. When staff are being canvassed, it is made clear to potential applicants that under the arrangements which apply to all Departments, removal expenses are not payable. However, volunteers in provincial locations who come to Dublin for necessary training in advance of relocation are paid a special ex gratia allowance in respect of their additional expenses while serving in Dublin in accordance with agreed rates and time limits. As can be seen from the following table the total amount involved to date is only £78,000.