Vol. 558 No. 6
94 Mr. O'Connor asked the Minister for Finance if, in respect of the proposed national finance development agency, he expects initiatives which will impact on Tallaght and the general Dublin south west region; his views on the need to fill the infrastructural deficit in the area; if he has had contacts with South Dublin County Council on the matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25210/02]
As the Deputy is aware the Bill to establish the national development finance agency is at present before this House. The new agency will have a crucial role in developing the best means of financing public investment. The NDFA will advise sponsoring agencies such as Departments, local authorities or statutory bodies on the optimal means of financing major infrastructure projects; it will provide ongoing financial advice as projects are procured; and, in certain circumstances, the NDFA will raise finance for projects. The purpose of the agency is to deliver value for money for the Exchequer by facilitating the best financial arrangements for projects. This will assist in the delivery of key elements of the NDP and other infrastructure projects. My aim is to have the NDFA operational early in 2003.
