Vol. 551 No. 2
67 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources the progress being made by the sub-committee overseeing the relocation of the Marine Institute to Galway; the discussions there have been with staff or union representatives; the total estimated cost of the relocation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9907/02]
The departmental council subcommittee is continuing its work to progress the relocation of the Marine Institute. The subcommittee comprises staff, unions, and management. The process of dialogue has been undertaken throughout in line with the principles of partnership and free and open exchange. The staff have voted in favour of an interim collective agreement. Negotiations on the implementation of specific aspects of this agreement are under way.
I opened the Marine Institute's interim headquarters at Galway technology park last week and work is under way with a view to establishing the new permanent headquarters at Oranmore by 2004. Staff have begun the process of moving to Galway and the Marine Institute has begun to recruit staff locally. A voluntary severance scheme is also in operation. I will brief the House on the estimated costs of the relocation as soon as these are available.
