Former Minister Charlie Flanagan pointed out that the expensive building at Portlaoise Prison was constructed even after it was known that the soldiers' deployment there would end. Flanagan highlighted the absurdity of spending taxpayers' money on a facility that would never be used by the Defence Forces, emphasizing the need for accountability regarding the costs involved in the construction of this building. Such decisions, he noted, raise questions about the oversight and decision-making processes of the OPW.
"I am awaiting full and detailed particulars from the office of Public Works and the Department of Public Expenditure and I'm disappointed that my parliamentary question has not been answered," Flanagan expressed, showcasing his frustration at the lack of transparency. He emphasized the importance of understanding all costs associated with the recently constructed building, including planning and construction for a facility that seems unnecessary given the context of troop withdrawal.
"At a meeting chaired by Leo Varadkar in the summer of 2023, I advised the office of Public Works and the state architect that this building in the grounds of Portlaoise Midlands Prison would not be necessary," Mr Flanagan commented. This statement underscores the apparent disconnect between government advice and the actions taken by the OPW, highlighting a potential misjudgment or oversight in the planning processes.
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