Shay Brennan (Dublin Rathdown, Fianna Fail)

I raise the critical issue of whether we are getting value for money from our infrastructural investment. As public representatives, we have a responsibility to ensure that every euro of taxpayers' money is spent wisely and delivers tangible, lasting benefits for communities. Over the past decade, we have witnessed unprecedented levels of capital investment in public infrastructure - roads, public transport, schools, hospitals, housing and more. The national development plan, Project Ireland 2040 and various sectoral strategies have set ambitious targets. The sums involved are substantial, reflecting the scale of the challenge and the opportunity before us. However, there is growing concern in this House and among the wider public about the efficiency and effectiveness of this spending. We have all seen high-profile projects beset by cost overruns, delays and significant changes in scope. The national children's hospital, MetroLink and various school building projects have attracted criticism for spiralling costs and protracted timelines. They are not isolated incidents but part of a broader pattern that raises fundamental questions about project management, procurement processes and accountability in our system. In my constituency of Dublin Rathdown, constituents regularly raise concerns about the pace of delivery and quality of completed projects. Whether transport links, school places or healthcare facilities, people want to know the State is delivering on its promises in a way that represents real value for money. There is a palpable sense of frustration when projects are delayed or costs escalate. It undermines public confidence in the State's ability to delivery essential infrastructure efficiently and effectively.

What specific measures are in place to ensure rigorous oversight of infrastructure projects from initial planning through to completion? How are lessons learned from past overruns and delays? What concrete reforms are being implemented to prevent a repeat of these issues? Is our performance benchmarked against international best practice? If so, how do we compare with our peers in Europe and beyond? Most important, what assurances can the Tánaiste give the public that we are maximising the return on this historic level of investment? What assurance can he provide that future projects will avoid the pitfalls we have seen to date? This is not just about balancing the books. It is about public trust and the credibility of the Government. People need to see that the State can deliver high-quality infrastructure on time and within budget to improve their daily lives and support Ireland's future growth and prosperity. I urge the Tánaiste to provide a detailed and candid assessment of where we stand. What is being done to address these challenges? How can we restore and strengthen confidence in our ability to deliver value for money in public investment?

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