The countdown is under way to a Stormont decision in the long-running Maze
stadium debate, the Belfast Telegraph understands.
The vexed issue is expected to be on the agenda of the Executive within the
next two months.
And it has been confirmed that officials in Finance Minister Peter
Robinson's department are close to finalising their value for money
assessment of the project.
The odds on a go-ahead for a new Maze stadium project have lengthened in
recent months, amid opposition within the DUP's Assembly grouping.
Two other departments have had key roles in the internal Government
deliberations.
The role of the Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister
(OFMDFM) involves the overall development of the massive former Maze Prison
site, while the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure's responsibilities
centre on the stadium proposal.
A spokesman for the Department of Finance and Personnel last night said: "
DFP is in receipt of an outline business case and affordability assessment
from OFMDFM and DCAL for the regeneration of the Maze/Long Kesh site.
"The issues involved are extremely complex and have required DFP
officials to work closely with those in OFMDFM and DCAL to seek
clarification on a number of issues. Final advice will be provided by
officials to Ministers soon."
The completion of the DFP appraisal will lead to the issue being brought to
the Executive for a decision.
Assembly sources anticipate that Mr Robinson would prefer to see the matter
addressed before he replaces Ian Paisley as First Minister in June.
It is also believed that he could face a backbench DUP revolt over a
pro-Maze verdict on the stadium.
There is deep unease within the party over plans for a conflict
transformation centre, incorporating the section of the old H block prison
that has been given listed building protection.
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