Michael McGrath (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank both Deputies for raising these issues. On the question of delays, I want to provide reassurance again that these new strengthened procedures are not there to delay projects, nor do I believe that they are delaying projects. One of the key elements for Departments when bringing forward major projects is that they must engage with the panel of external experts that my Department has set up. That process takes approximately six weeks and can be done in parallel with other project inputs. If Departments prepare adequately, the review does not lead to a delay in project delivery. When one considers how long it can take to deliver major public-capital investment projects, that is a very short period of time. That is time well-spent to ensure the i's are dotted and the t's are crossed, that we have our homework fully done before we press the start button on major projects.

On the matter raised by Deputy Durkan, I suggest he raises it with the Minister for Transport.

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