asked the Minister for Local Government if his Department has received tenders from contractors in respect of the Ballymun shopping centre, Dublin; the reason for the delay in deciding on a contractor; and when he expects the erection of the shopping centre to commence.

21.

asked the Minister for Local Government if he is aware of the growing concern of Ballymun residents, Dublin, at the complete lack of shops in the area; when work will commence on the proposed shopping centre; and when the shops will open for business.

With your permission, a Cheann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 20 and 21 together.

Proposals were invited, following public advertisement, from competent developers for the provision of shopping, commercial and community facilities on a site of about 8½ acres associated with the housing project at Ballymun. A number of outline proposals were received and examined and negotiations were pursued with the developer whose proposal appeared to offer the best range of facilities to the residents and the best financial return to the ratepayers. These negotiations have reached an advanced stage. When a final selection has been made it is my intention to make a recommendation to Dublin Corporation in regard to the terms for the leasing of the site to enable the provision of shops etc. to proceed. The necessity to provide shops at the earliest possible date will be impressed as a prime objective on the developer to be selected. If, however, it appears that the provision of shops of permanent construction is likely to take too long, consideration will be given to the provision of some shops of temporary construction as a matter of urgency.

How long is "too long"?

I do not know; we will see how many he decides.

How long does the Minister consider completion of the development should take?

It will take a little more time.

Is it the Minister or the corporation decides this?

What is the system employed in the selection of developers in this case? Why has the ordinary time-honoured and well-tried system of the lowest tender been eliminated?

That seems to be a different question.

People are asking it and they would like to know the answer.

It would make things simpler for me, I would say.

Can the Minister say whether it is the corporation or the Minister decides who gets the tender?

The National Building Agency.