364 Mr. Walsh asked the Minister for Finance when work will commence on the accommodation building to facilitate decentralisation to Clonakilty, County Cork; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5520/06]

Tenders have been invited for the design and construction of new offices for the Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources and Bord Iascaigh Mhara in Clonakilty. Following receipt and evaluation of the tenders, a preferred tenderer will be selected. The sanction of the Department of Finance will then be sought to proceed to the next stage of the process. On receipt of sanction, the preferred tenderer will be instructed to apply for planning permission. Subject to receipt of a satisfactory planning permission, a formal contract will be entered into and work will commence on site. The Commissioners of Public Works are anxious to ensure the project will progress to construction at the earliest possible date.