David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael)

I thought I heard the Minister of State mention value for money, which sounds strange coming from a member of this Government. There has been so much waste and so many instances where the taxpayer did not get value for money. It is one of the issues which concerns many people. This modest amendment tries to ensure that there is more value for taxpayers' money, which does not belong to the Minister of State or the Government. This could be done without compromising commercial sensitivities.

It is important that we have public accountability for performance at critical gateways. This has not been happening. There have been a number of unconnected strategies and projects, such as decentralisation, the spatial strategy and the national development plan. One-off housing is everywhere and there are housing estates with no infrastructure, no schools, playgrounds, parks or transport facilities. The whole thing is a mess because there has been little or no accountability. It is the job of the Government to ensure that there is accountability, but that has not happened. I am disappointed that the Minister of State will not accept this, but I am not surprised because it would have meant accountability. Therefore, I have no choice but to withdraw the amendment.

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