I propose to take Questions Nos. 433, 434, 435, 436 and 437 together.
The Office of Public Works is carrying out a Strategic Review on behalf of the Brexit Infrastructure Group (the project Steering Group). The Department of Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation chairs this Group, with membership being comprised of all relevant Government Departments. The Strategic Review will be subject to the approval of the Brexit Infrastructure Group, with publication of this review a matter for that group.
The Office of Public Works responded to queries raised by the Comptroller and Auditor General during the preparation of their Special Report. To meet the construction and overall project deadlines, the Office of Public Works, as the project Contracting Authority, used an existing contract that included pre-tendered rates. Using this contract allowed the Office of Public Works to fix prices where possible, to better ensure value for public money. The remaining specialised works were tendered at market rates. The Department of Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation sanctioned this approach at the time.
The Office of Public Works has reviewed in full the Special Report of the Comptroller and Auditor General. No specific updated guidance has issued to the Office of Public Works.
The majority of Terminal 7 at Dublin Port has been released to the Dublin Port Company. Collaboration is ongoing with all stakeholders in relation to the potential rationalisation of further sites, including Terminal 9 at Dublin Port.
In addition to the construction costs of approximately €71.2 million for the Brexit-related infrastructure works at Dublin Port, the Office of Public Works incurred fees, site costs, fit-out costs and VAT. The Total Project Cost in respect of all 27 projects was approximately €108 million. The proportion of Brexit-related infrastructure works delivered under schedule-of-rates pricing was approximately 27%. Any assets currently occupied by Government are in active use.
The Strategic Review of Dublin Port underway at present will be subject to the approval of the Brexit Infrastructure Group.
