Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 26 January 2017
120. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform in the context of the growing needs of the recovering economy, if he expects to be in a position to meet infrastructural requirements of the widest possible nature affecting our economic performance; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3701/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Capital Plan "Building on Recovery", sets out a €42 billion framework to address our priority infrastructure needs up to 2021. This plan is being reviewed to ensure that capital spending is strictly aligned with national economic and social priorities, consistent with Programme for Partnership Government objectives. This includes examining how available capital funds can best be allocated to underpin sustainable medium-term economic growth and future growth potential.
The review of the Plan will be undertaken in two stages:
Phase 1 is a focused review of priorities aimed primarily at advising Government, in the context of Budget 2018, on how the additional capital funding committed by Government should be allocated over the remainder of the plan. This will examine priority areas for investment, consistent with the objectives of the existing Capital Plan and the specific investment priorities contained in the Programme for Government.
Phase 2 will assess and report on the framework required to underpin longer term analysis of Ireland's infrastructure planning needs.
My Department has recently written to all Departments initiating the review process and has sought submissions, including proposals for any of the additional capital funding available, by end February 2017. A public consultation will also be undertaken to inform the Review.
