Mr. John Conlon:

We announced reforms in March try to address some of what I will not call red tape but rather some of the delays which we had received feedback on. That was a response which I believe is quite effective. That process of engagement with the Department is where it has learned those lessons in review. The public spending code should be seen as a document that is subject to review on an ongoing basis for some of the reasons the Deputy has just mentioned, as has Deputy Conway-Walsh.

I would not view it as red tape but as a way we can review, consider and respond to those issues. Let us be frank, however, as the public spending code is there for a reason. It is to give a better appraisal function so that we can achieve value for money in those projects. If the resources are put into doing that right, then one will get better outcomes. I would not call it red tape but would call it doing it the right way.