I propose to take Questions Nos. 273 to 275, inclusive, together.
It was a requirement of the Tender for these works that the Main Contractor appoint a registered Archaeologist to monitor all excavation works, incorporating the cost of this engagement in his overall fixed tender price. The Main Contractor appointed for these works was Clonmel Enterprises Ltd. who engaged Valerie J. Keeley Ltd., as the Archaeological Consultants for this project.
When the archaeological issue was encountered, located on the site of the two ponds at the outer extremes of the original Star Fort, there was an immediate referral to the National Monuments Service (NMS) of the Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht. Under the direction of Valerie J. Keeley Ltd., Clonmel Enterprises Ltd. was required to extract all materials from the two identified areas. Archaeologists from Valerie J. Keeley Ltd. undertook the Archaeological Investigation of the area which constituted examination of the silky clay surrounds of the Star Fort and of the extracted materials in compliance with the Ministerial Licence that had to be obtained on foot of this discovery. The estimated cost of the archaeological investigation is €23,195.
Heavy rainfall and the presence of natural springs in certain areas of the road, gave rise to an unacceptable level of water retention in the foundation levels of stretches of the road. Additional excavation and remedial drainage measures were necessary. This, and the aforementioned reconciliation of the unforeseen archaeology, are responsible for the delay to date. Final completion is expected shortly but is dependent on favourable weather conditions for the laying of bitumen/tarmacadam.