John Conlon, the Chairman of the OPW, stated, "I acknowledge that, while the costs for this project can be explained, the overall cost of delivering a covered bicycle shelter at Leinster House is completely not acceptable in the wider context of value for money and value for the taxpayer." His statement indicates a recognition of excessive costs despite understanding the individual expenditures.
Conlon added, "It is an extraordinary cost for the provision of a covered bicycle parking facility and one which the OPW has to seriously reflect on." This highlights a need for introspection regarding the budgeting process and expenditure justification.
Regarding accountability, Conlon said, "In order to ensure full transparency and to provide independent verification on this project, I intend to seek an external audit." This signifies a proactive approach to scrutinizing future project expenditures.
As a precautionary measure, Conlon mentioned, "all projects between €200,000 and €500,000 will in future be required to have an initial cost and value for money (VfM) assessment presented to relevant management for approval to proceed." This aims to enhance oversight and control over public spending.
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