Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Wednesday, 5 Jun 1996

Vol. 466 No. 4

Written Answers. - Subcontractors Malpractice Complaints.

Tom Kitt

Ceist:

98 Mr. T. Kitt asked the Minister for Health if he will have arrangements made to investigate complaints by subcontractors of malpractice (details supplied) in relation to payment for works completed by the subcontractors; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11369/96]

Minister for Health (Mr. Noonan,

Limerick East): I understand that the question relates to domestic sub-contractors on the Tallaght Hospital project.

Queries relating to the building contract are a matter for the Tallaght Hospital Board in the first instance. Inquiries have been made of the board in relation to the issues raised.

A domestic sub-contract is one where the main contractor selects and employs a firm to execute works on site. The employer (Tallaght Hospital Board) or design team is not party to the selection process or cost. Responsibility for all works undertaken by a domestic subcontractor lies with the main contractor Laing-Paul (Tallaght) Joint Venture.

I have no direct involvement in any dispute that may arise in relation to these contracts, and it would not be appropriate for me to intervene in the matter.