Bertie Ahern (Dublin Central, Fianna Fail)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 5 to 9, inclusive, together.

The role of the cross-departmental team is to identify and assist in advancing and resolving issues related to infrastructural planning and delivery, ensuring they are adequately prepared for consideration by the Cabinet committee on housing, infrastructure and PPPs and, where necessary, the Government. This preparation has helped to improve significantly the capacity for the delivery of national infrastructure, especially in terms of time and cost. However, lead responsibility remains clearly with the relevant Minister and Department in respect of each policy area or individual infrastructural project.

The cross-departmental team is chaired by my Department and comprises representatives from the Departments of Finance, Communications, Marine and Natural Resources, Education and Science, the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Transport, Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs and Justice, Equality and Law Reform and the Office of the Attorney General. The team is meeting again today and usually meets on a monthly basis.

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