Vol. 512 No. 8
106 Dr. O'Hanlon asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the date on which approval was given to commence the refurbishment of the courthouse in Carrickmacross, County Monaghan; the reason for the delay in commencing this work and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27432/99]
The Courts Service was established on 9 November 1999. One of the functions of the service is to provide, maintain and manage court buildings.
I am informed that Monaghan County Council are acting on behalf of the Courts Service in respect of the refurbishment of Carrickmacross Courthouse.
Prior to the establishment of the Courts Service, my Department gave approval on 12 July 1999 to Monaghan County Council to appoint a contractor to carry out the work.
However, the project did not proceed immediately as the contractor sought an increase due to the fact that the tender was not accepted within the 90 day period as stipulated in the tender invitation. The additional sum sought reflected the increases in wages, materials and market conditions since the original tender date and fixes the price of these items up to completion date of the contract.
The necessary financial approval for the additional cost has now been obtained and I am informed that Monaghan County Council have been asked to proceed with the appointment of the contractor based on the revised tender price.
