I have asked my Department to consider ways of accelerating and streamlining procedures for the delivery of major infrastructure projects in the transport area. The focus is on developing a package of measures which will shorten the approval period for such projects and also reduce costs. Measures under consideration include the degree to which public consultation is appropriate and issues connected with compensation for land being compulsorily acquired. However, as proposals are currently being formulated and the details have yet to be worked out, it is not possible for me to give any further information at present on what new procedures or arrangements may be required. The preparation of a critical transport infrastructure Bill is included in the current Government legislative programme.
Question No. 131 answered with Question No. 95.
Question No. 132 answered with Question No. 89.
Question No. 133 answered with Question No. 79.
Question No. 134 answered with Question No. 106.