Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I am answering the question, whether it be on the matter of expertise or the personnel themselves. If we had those people, I would then face questions on duplication, given such expertise exists in the National Transport Authority, NTA, and bodies that are delivering large-scale transport infrastructure projects for the State. The role of my Department is an economic one. Our role is to evaluate the business cases for projects above a certain level, for large projects, and to give sanction or to recommend to Government regarding whether sanction should be given. Our role is also to ensure adherence to the public spending code and to sanction any changes that Departments make within their budget but to ensure they stay within their budget. We have the expertise to do that work.

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