21 Mr. Leonard asked the Minister for Finance the reason for the delay in bringing the vacated Garda premises in Monaghan town into use in view of the need for accommodation by State agencies. [2849/97]

I advised Deputy Leonard in November 1996 that tenders for the refurbishment of the former Garda station in Monaghan, for use as Government offices, would be invited in December 1996. However, finalisation of the tender documents resulted in a delay of approximately one month.

Tenders were invited on 31 January 1997. It is anticipated that work will start on site by the end of March.

The contract period is nine months.