277 Deputy John Cregan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if a submission has been made by a person (details supplied) in County Limerick regarding the future usage of electronic voting machines; if he will confirm when a final decision will issue on the disposal of these machines; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46010/10]

Following the Government decision not to proceed with implementation of electronic voting in Ireland, an Interdepartmental Task Force, chaired by my Department, was established to bring the project to an orderly conclusion and to oversee disposal of the equipment and termination of storage arrangements. The Task Force aims to complete its work as soon as possible.

In considering options for disposal of the equipment, the priority is to pursue the most economically advantageous approach, with a view to achieving the maximum recovery of cost possible in the circumstances, consistent with environmental and other obligations. While proposals have not at this stage been invited in respect of the equipment, some expressions of interest have been received, including one from the person whose details were supplied. Each expression of interest has been acknowledged and is being retained for future reference, as required.