Denis Naughten
Question:158 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Transport if he will report on his recent visit to Spain; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7161/03]
Written Answers - Official Engagements.
Last week I visited Madrid to see and hear the approach that its authorities are taking to the construction of its transport infrastructure. The Madrid authorities are undertaking a significant investment programme involving roads, metro and a second terminal at Barajas Airport. Reports to me suggested that the cost effectiveness of these projects and timescale in which they are being delivered were worthy of examination.
I had very interesting and fruitful discussions with my Spanish counterpart. I also met public and private bodies, including representatives of the State, regional and local authorities. I was impressed with the short delivery time that has been achieved in Madrid for major infrastructure projects and with the comparatively low outturn costs that were quoted to me. The whole approach to project planning and construction is worthy of further consideration. I have asked the relevant State bodies under my aegis to investi gate, in particular, the cost comparisons on the road and metro projects. I have also asked my Department to examine the regulatory procedures applied in Madrid to determine if they can be adapted for here and so contribute to reducing the cost and delivery time for critical infrastructure projects.