Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 30 May 2000

Vol. 520 No. 1

Written Answers. - Marine Institute.

Bernard Allen

Ceist:

96 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources the cost of moving the Marine Institute from Abbotstown; if other staff of the institute will also be moved to Galway; the cost in this regard; if this move is also required because of the National Stadium development; the position of staff on the move; if he is concerned at the effect it will have on morale to separate the institute between Dublin and Galway; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15129/00]

Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources (Mr. Fahey)

The cost of relocating the Marine Institute to Galway has been estimated at £10 million.

With the exception of a small Dublin office, the majority of the Marine Institute staff, comprising of the order of 60 members, will be relocated to Galway. This move will facilitate the development of the National Stadium and is also in keeping with the Government's policy of balanced regional development with the channelling of public sector jobs into provincial areas.

A subcommittee consisting of representatives from the staff side and the official side has been set up to oversee the relocation of the Marine Institute. Several meetings have taken place to identify and discuss all the issues arising and to facilitate the relocation of the Marine Institute.

The staff have been kept up to date on the issues associated with the relocation. Following the relocation, staff will be provided with expanded and upgraded facilities, thus leading to a better work environment.