asked the Minister for Finance if there is a stipulation in respect of building contracts approved by or financed in whole or in part by his Department prescribing use of cement by the IIRS.

Specifications for Office of Public Works building contracts stipulate that cement must comply with the Irish Standard Specification I.S. 1:1963 as amended in accordance with the Irish Standard Mark Licensing Scheme of the IIRS.

Could the Minister state how his Department supervise this matter and how he assures himself that only cement certified by the IIRS is used in the building and construction work financed by his Department?

There have been some cases of complaint brought to our notice which we have investigated. We found that in those cases the cement was as specified. We have regular checks on cement and cement products, such as blocks, and have them tested by the IIRS who stipulate the conditions.

Will the Minister continue to satisfy himself that only certified cement is used?

Yes.