As Minister for Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery & Reform, I am responsible for setting the overall multi-annual capital expenditure ceilings for each Ministerial Vote Group as set out in the National Development Plan and Project Ireland 2040, of which road and rail projects will play a vital role. My department liaises on a ongoing basis with the Department of Transport on these projects.
My Department is also responsible for maintaining the national frameworks within which Departments must operate to ensure that public funding is appropriately accounted for and that value for money for public expenditure is achieved. The Public Spending Code sets the value for money requirements and guidance for evaluating, planning and managing capital projects. Management and delivery of investment projects and public services within allocation and the national frameworks is a key responsibility of every Department and Minister.
My Department is not responsible for the sanctioning or approving of specific road and rail projects; this is matter for the Department and Minister for Transport.