Jack Chambers (Dublin West, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

It is an absolute priority. On the specific items or examples the Deputy has raised, I have met with the chair of the OPW, along with the Minister of State, Deputy Moran, as regards the specific concerns relating to particular projects. In certain instances, members of the public have been extremely concerned, as indeed I think anyone in the political system is, about particular cost overruns. The OPW has been held to account in the Oireachtas. It is important that we have central guidance and oversight to ensure value for money and ensure that there is proper standardisation, that the design protocols are in place and that projects can be delivered at a lower cost and in an effective timeframe. That is why, as part of the appraisal for projects under the infrastructure guidelines, sponsoring agents are asked to critically consider the potential schedule and cost implications of a project, which is further developed as a project progresses through the approval gates and more information becomes available as it moves from a preliminary to a final business case, before the awarding of a contract. It includes both detailed financial and economic appraisal and accounting for all appropriate levels of contingency. That is all set out in the overall infrastructure guidance.

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