Trevor Sargent
Question:175 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Finance the progress in implementation of the national development plan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13137/02]
Written Answers. - National Development Plan.
I am satisfied with the implementation of the national development plan. Good progress has been made in implementing the NDP infrastructure programme with financial outturns well on target and significant physical output being recorded. Progress is also satisfactory in the area of human resource development. Progress is behind profile in areas of productive sector investment due to lower than expected demand and in certain other areas where programme roll-out has been delayed by factors such as delays in schemes awaiting State aids approval from the EU and also the impact of foot and mouth disease.
In relation to the key area of infrastructure, NDP investment is mostly provided for in the Economic and Social Infrastructure Operational Programme of the plan. Over the first three years of the plan, total investment under the ESIOP will amount to €10.2 billion, some €140 million more than originally planned. The gross Exchequer contribution will amount to some €8.5 billion, which is €740 million more than originally planned.
I accept that construction industry inflation has been higher than anticipated since the launch of the NDP. Additional costs have also risen in some areas due to respecification of projects as they move from conception to planning, design and construction. Despite these factors, good progress has been made with financial outturns well on target and significant physical output being achieved.
The implementation of the national development plan is fundamental to maintaining national competitiveness. The Government's commitment to the plan is evidenced by the fact that the Exchequer allocation for NDP infrastructure investment over the first three years of the plan was well in excess of the original projection. I can assure the Deputy that implementation of the plan will remain a top priority of Government policy.