The multi-annual funding framework for capital investment announced by the Minister for Finance in budget 2004 provides for a total investment of €8.2 billion, £6.857 billion. Exchequer and €1.35 billion provide sector funding in the national roads development programme over the period 2004-2008. My Department and the Department of Finance are currently preparing an agreement to underpin the funding envelope for capital investment in the transport sector including national roads. It is envisaged that the agreement will incorporate provisions relating, inter alia, to the annual funding levels, contractual commitments and reporting and monitoring arrangements. As part of the process the NRA are preparing a multi-annual funding plan for the 2004-08 period.