I propose to take Questions Nos. 240 to 243, inclusive, together.
As the Deputy will be aware, my Department has been engaging in legal correspondence with Kildare County Council on this matter. On foot of legal advices, it was agreed that the matter would be resolved through a mediation process between my Department and Kildare County Council.
Arising from same my Department reached a meditated agreement in late 2021 with Kildare County Council. As a result of which and in accordance with this agreement, my Department will liaise with the local authority in the preparation and development of the required Environmental reports and agree on any follow up action arising from same. My Department has recently appointed Environmental Consultants to commence this work.
The cost to my Department of the mediation totalled €9,559.97. This amounted to 50% of the cost of the mediation process. It was agreed prior to the mediatiion that the costs would be split on a 50/50 basis between the two parties.