Investment for first half of Transport 21 outlined in Budget

Date: 08 December 2005

Additional Regional Airports investment for 2006 announced

Budget 2006 has set out the capital spending levels for the first half (2006-2010) of Transport 21.

Budget 2006 has also unveiled that for next year, an additional €115million has been allocated for transport, bringing total transport investment for 2006 to €1.87billion. The 2006 allocation also provided an increase of €11million for regional airports, bringing regional airport investment to €15million next year.

Under the spending plans outlined in Budget 2006, transport investment will double in the period 2006 to 2010, the first half of Transport 21 (details below).

Commenting on Budget 2006, Minister for Transport, Martin Cullen TD said: "Transport 21 was launched a month ago with a ten year roll out horizon and a €34.4 billion investment cost. This is an unprecedented commitment on the part of government and recognises the importance of a world-class public infrastructure in securing and enhancing the economic and social gains made in this country since 1997.

"Today's budget underpins that commitment. The funding outlined for each of the next five years allows us to plan, start and complete projects outlined in Transport 21.

"This year's allocation will get Transport 21 off to an excellent start. The year ahead will see the continued roll out of the motorway programme, construction of more bypasses across the country, the building of a new Docklands railway station, the start of a process which will see the Western rail corridor being reopened, the Kildare rail route and Dart being upgraded and new rolling stock being delivered. Work will also commence on the Cherrywood Luas extension while planning of other major infrastructure projects will be advanced."

On regional airports, Minister Cullen said the additional investment of €11m next year demonstrates the push by Government to invest in the regions. This additional funding for regional airports will be in addition to current regional airport investment programmes.

The Minister said: "Air access to the regions is vitally important. It enables Government to use resources to contribute to the achievement of more balanced economic development by guaranteeing scheduled air services for consumers, business and tourism."

ENDS

2006 2010 Capital funding allocation for Transport

	2006	2007	2008	2009	2010
Total	1,870	2,270	2,538	3,550	3,705

Further info:

Dan Pender 01 6041090 / 087 2313415

Veronica Scanlan 01 6041087 / 087 6430622