280 Mr. Walsh asked the Minister for Finance whether the Office of Public Works has arranged accommodation for the 200 staff from the Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources and Bord Iascaigh Mhara who have volunteered to transfer to Clonakilty, and who are waiting for a decision on suitable accommodation for more than two years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9460/06]

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 and are due for return on 20 March next. Following receipt and evaluation of the tenders, a preferred tenderer will be selected. The preferred tenderer will then 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 that the project will progress to construction at the earliest possible date.