252 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Finance when building will commence on the offices for the District Vet Office for County Leitrim based in Drumshanbo; when tenders will be sought for construction; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14767/07]

Tenders have recently been received and are currently being examined. It is anticipated that a contract will be awarded by mid May with work commencing on site in June 2007.

253 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Finance the cost to his Department regarding the provision of temporary offices for the DVO for County Leitrim based in Drumshanbo; and the rental cost and other maintenance costs per year to the Office of Public Works of the same building. [14768/07]

The annual rent for the provision of temporary office accommodation for the District Veterinary Office in Drumshanbo, Co. Leitrim is €51,500 plus VAT. The cost of fitting out the offices to the requirements of the Department of Agriculture & Food was €130,000 plus VAT.