The LONG-delayed purchase by the Office of Public Works of the former Irish Press building at Burgh Quay, Dublin 2, was finally completed this week. The state agency has agreed to pay Shelbourne Developments £27 million (€34.28m) for the building when it is completely fitted out. The block will be occupied by the immigration division of the Department of Justice and the visa section of the Department of Foreign Affairs.

In July 2000, the Irish Times sold the 48,000 sq ft building to Shelbourne Developments for £9 million (€11.43m). It is currently being redeveloped and refurbished.