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Departmental Properties.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 9 November 2004

Tuesday, 9 November 2004

Ceisteanna (261)

Joan Burton

Ceist:

323 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding the building (details supplied) purchased by his Department; its proposed use by the probation services; the cost to date of the premises; the estimated refurbishment costs, and if he has made efforts to secure locations more central to Blanchardstown town centre in order to meet the stated objectives of the probation service in having a town centre location for the service. [28215/04]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

The building referred to was acquired by the Office of Public Works on behalf of the probation and welfare service on 15 April 2002. The total cost of the purchase was €1.5 million, including VAT. Additional costs to date amount to € 240,000, including VAT. If further envisaged refurbishment were to proceed, the future costs associated with that work have been estimated to be in the region of € 2.4 million, including VAT.

On purchasing the building, the intention was to renovate and extend the premises, using one portion as a local office and the other as a probation centre. However, before proceeding with the refurbishment project, due to concerns which emerged in the matter, the Department decided to review the suitability of the location in question and examine alternative location options in the Blanchardstown area. If an alternative location ultimately emerges for this centre appropriate steps will be taken to avoid loss to the Exchequer arising from the acquisition of the original premises in Blanchardstown.

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