It is not correct to state that no action had been taken in relation to the properties mentioned by the Deputy. The present position on the projects is as follows. In the case of Kells Priory an initial phase of urgent masonry repair and conservation has been completed. This has allowed public access to the monument, without having to pass over the farmland within which the priory is situated. Accommodation for the workforce, which will be based in Kells, is being examined. Subject to the continued availability of funding, it is expected that the next phase of work will commence as soon as the accommodation is available. This project is still due for completion in 2003.
In the case of Grangefertagh, in response to a parliamentary question last July, I advised that the indications were that the scaffolding at Grangefertagh would be erected at the earliest by late September. The latest position is that the scaffolding will be erected this month.
In the case of Tullaherin, the erection of scaffolding at the site was hampered by bad weather at the end of 2000 and the spring of 2001 which caused ground conditions to deteriorate to such an extent that it would have been dangerous to erect the scaffolding. In addition, with the onset of the foot and mouth crisis this project could not proceed. The ground survey, which was required before commencement of works, has now been completed. It is now expected that the scaffolding will be erected in November. This will facilitate the assessment of its structural condition and a programme of works can then be drawn up.