152 Deputy Pat Rabbitte asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform the schedule for the completion of the national children detention centre at Oberstown, County Dublin; if it will be delayed in present financial circumstances and if so, the length of time envisaged; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2816/11]

Following Government approval for the development of new national children detention facilities at Oberstown, Lusk, Co. Dublin, the design process is well underway. Planning approval is in place and some advance works have recently commenced on site with a view to enabling the main works at a later date.

The development is to be completed in phases in order to ensure the continued operation of the existing facilities until such time as the new facilities are available. Detailed specifications are currently being developed in order to go to tender for construction of the new facilities. While it is the intention that phase 1 of the development, which will provide places for the 16 -17 age group (currently accommodated in St. Patrick's Institution) will be completed at the earliest possible date, the Deputy will appreciate that tendering for the project will be subject to Government approval and to the necessary funding being made available.