An investigation into contamination at the former Irish Steel site at Cork Harbour is to be carried out.
Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government Dick Roche welcomed the news that Cork County Council had appointed Environmental consultants White Young Green to investigate contamination at the site.
Irish Steel was privatised in 1996 and renamed Irish Ispat before going into liquidation in 2001. The site reverted to the State in 2003.
"It has taken some time to get here because it is so important to carry out a robust and comprehensive investigation but the momentum will be continued," Mr Roche said, adding the demolition of buildings will start over the coming months.
"While Irish Steel was a significant part of Ireland's industrial history, it's now time to make a fresh start. Today's contract will yield valuable information to allow us decide on the future of the site, " he said.