asked the Minister for Finance if it is the Government's intention to purchase Mallow Castle, County Cork as part of the Government's programme to decentralise Departments.

7.

asked the Minister for Finance if it is his intention to purchase Mallow Castle, County Cork for conversion to offices; and, if not, why.

Clare): I propose to take Questions Nos. 6 and 7 together. The Government have no plans at present to decentralise any Government Department to Mallow. The Commissioners of Public Works are, however, investigating the suitability of Mallow Castle for use as offices by the local staffs of certain Government Departments.

When the Minister says he is investigating the suitability of Mallow Castle does that mean he is investigating the possibility of buying the castle?

(Clare): We are investigating the suitability of it for use as offices by the existing staff. At this stage we cannot make a decision until we get a full report on the structure of the castle.

If it is a suitable building will the Minister proceed to buy it?

(Clare): When we get the report we will make a decision on it.

When is the report likely to be ready?

(Clare): I am awaiting it at present.

Does the Minister expect it to be a month, a year or two years?

(Clare): I do not know the actual date but it should not take very long.

Investigations started last August. Can the Minister give a guarantee that they will be finished before Christmas?

(Clare): I hope so.

In the event of the castle not being purchased for one reason or another, is Mallow likely to be included in the decentralisation programme?

(Clare): I have already said that it is not included in the present programme of decentralisation. That is a matter for the Government. The reason we are investigating this castle is that it might be suitable for use by local staff of certain Departments which are already in the area.