asked the Minister for Finance the reasons for the delay in proceeding with the building of the new Army headquarters; and if he will make a statement on the up-to-date position.

The Minister of State is dealing with this question. I have not got it.

Does the Deputy propose to postpone the question?

Can it be postponed until later?

It is either taken now or it is adjourned.

Can it be adjourned?

Yes, it can be adjourned.

In fairness to the Deputy who put the question down. Deputy Leonard, it is entirely inappropriate that the Minister who should be here to answer the question is not here. The Deputy cannot be expected to have his question postponed because the Minister of State is not present.

I will postpone it until the Minister arrives.

I now have the answer. A considerable amount of work was necessary to enable the contract documents previously prepared in respect of the project to be amended to comply with up-dated conditions of contract and revised building regulations. This included protracted negotiations with the consultants responsible for the planning of the scheme. Revised documents have been received. Tenders for the project will be invited shortly.