Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 15 April 2015
838. Deputy Michael Colreavy asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources when the decision was made for Inland Fisheries Ireland to open a research centre in Dublin 24; what is the rationale for this decision. [14315/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraMatters in relation to accommodation are primarily a day to day operational matter for public bodies, in this instance Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI). As the Deputy will appreciate, accommodation and staffing are amongst the most significant cost components of public sector bodies and it is incumbent on all agencies to achieve economy and efficiency. In this context, the Board of IFI continues to engage in a strategic rationalisation of its Dublin based accommodation into one location. On its establishment, IFI had accommodation at three locations in Swords including leasing a headquarters building (this included IFI’s research and development operations), a laboratory and a warehouse. In addition IFI had premises in Glasnevin and Blackrock. As part of this rationalisation, and in keeping with Government policy to exit from expensive leases wherever possible, IFI exercised the break clause on the Swords Headquarters when it arose and has already disposed of the Glasnevin premises.
The rationalisation and amalgamation strategy for all Dublin property will generate efficiencies and also savings over time in relation to lease rents and in terms of the significantly better energy efficiency of the new Headquarters facility in Citywest, which will also be consistent with Government commitments as regards reducing CO2 emissions and energy consumption.
IFI recently identified suitable premises near its HQ in Citywest to house its warehousing, laboratory and archiving facilities and purchase of this premises is under consideration. The cost of this facility will be met from IFI’s own resources. This element of the project continues the policy of exiting from expensive long term leases and will complete the rationalisation of IFI’s operations in Dublin. Aside from the strategic benefit of co-locating this facility with the new HQ, from a response capability perspective, further savings are anticipated both in financial terms and in staff time.
I am informed that this rationalisation is being undertaken in conformity with Public Financial Procedures, including capital appraisal, and that IFI has engaged with all staff on these matters and are continuing to do so through the normal Industrial Relations channels.
