Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 15 Nov 1995

Vol. 458 No. 3

Written Answers. - Transport Infrastructure Development.

John O'Donoghue

Question:

23 Mr. O'Donoghue asked the Minister for Tourism and Trade the efforts, if any, being made by his Department to liaise, discern and develop relevant pro-trade policy regarding the developing and competitive transport infrastructure for exporters. [16867/95]

Minister for Tourism and Trade (Mr. E. Kenny)

Primary responsibility for the national transport infrastructure rests with the Departments of the Environment, the Marine and Transport, Energy and Communications. One of the main considerations guiding those Departments is the Government's policy of having the best possible infrastructure for industry, particularly exporters, in order to maintain and improve their competitiveness.

The Government is addressing the transport needs of industry with the help of EU Structural Funds. Road, rail, airport and harbours infrastructure are being developed and improved. Over the six year period 1994-1999 a total of £2,611 million will be invested under the Operational Programme for Transport.

The Minister is acutely aware of the importance of an adequate transport infrastructure to the development of exports and he will continue to liaise as necessary with the other relevant Ministers and Departments to ensure that Ireland's potential for overseas trade is not disadvantaged.