Can the Minister report on the implementation of the accelerating infrastructure plan?

Sentiment score: 0.00

I welcome the fact that all of the targets relating to the infrastructure plan are being hit. The Minister and his staff are to be complimented on ensuring that this has happened. I also welcome the Government's continued focus on accelerating the delivery of crucial infrastructure projects, particularly in view of the importance of housing, transport and utilities to economic growth and regional development. One issue that is occasionally raised by communities, businesses and local authorities is the need for greater co-ordination and faster decision-making across the agencies and Departments involved in major projects. Delays in infrastructure delivery can have very real consequences for housing supply, inward investment and regional growth. Can the Minister outline what practical improvements are being seen on the ground as a result of the implementation of the accelerated infrastructure plan? Can he indicated whether measurable timelines for delivery are beginning to improve as a result of the reforms and co-ordination measures introduced?

Sentiment score: 0.48

I thank the Minister for that. It all sounds great. I appreciate the 26 weeks and the 12 months that have been saved by Uisce Éireann. However, one of the biggest concerns I hear from councillors, other public representatives and communities is not simply the level of investment going into Uisce Éireann - and very significant State funding was put in by the Minister in the budget - but, rather, whether the organisation has the operational capacity and responsiveness necessary to manage that investment effectively and to communicate clearly with communities. For instance, in my county of Offaly, Edenderry, Birr, Banagher and other areas are already at capacity in the context of wastewater. This is directly impacting future housing and development potential, yet there remains a lack of clarity around timelines and planned upgrades. Similar concerns are arising in other places , including Tullamore and Tyrells Road. The improvement of water infrastructure in Tullamore was supposed to start in the final quarter of this year or the first quarter of next year, but it has now been pushed out to 2028. Does the Minister accept there is a need for stronger accountability, engagement and transparency from Uisce Éireann with elected representatives from local communities in order that people can clearly understand what infrastructure projects are planned, what stage they are at and when delivery can realistically be expected?

Sentiment score: 0.41