Capital spending and time scales under Transport 21

Date: 12 November 2008


Dáil Question Nos: 118, 204, 205 To ask the Minister for Transport the extent to which he has revised or reviewed his capital spending programme with particular reference to Transport 21; if he has issued directives to the National Roads Authority with regard to prioritisation of specific projects; if all projects originally identified are expected to proceed as anticipated and outlined in the national development plan; if it is expected that expenditure will remain on target and the projects within schedule; and if he will make a statement on the matter. - Bernard J. Durkan. To ask the Minister for Transport if it is intended to deliver on time and within cost all road development proposals contained in T21; and if he will make a statement on the matter. - Bernard J. Durkan. *To ask the Minister for Transport if it is his intention to proceed with, as planned and within the time scale identified, all aspects of T21 as incorporated in the national development plan in respect of rail services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. - Bernard J. Durkan.

Answered by Noel Dempsey T.D.
Minister for Transport

REPLY

I propose to take Questions 118, 204 and 205 together.

My priorities for national roads are the completion of the major interurban network by 2010 and the progressive development of the Atlantic Road Corridor. I understand from the NRA that it is currently in the process of drawing up its programme of works for 2009 based on its funding allocation for the year. I cannot comment, therefore, on individual projects pending the outcome of that exercise.

The provision of increased capacity will be a key consideration in determining public transport investment priorities in the period ahead.

The adjustment in capital funding in 2009 will not have a significant effect on the roll out of the Transport 21 public transport programme and will not result in the postponement of the start of construction of any public transport project.

I have also asked the implementing agencies to ensure that they continue planning work on Transport 21 projects so that a shelf of work is ready to start as resources become available.

The start and completion dates of national roads and public transport projects, which have not yet commenced, will be determined by the funding allocation available during the current difficult economic climate. The commencement dates for these projects will also be influenced by the time taken for public consultation, the relevant statutory process and the procurement and contract award processes.