It is acknowledged that the cost of the national roads programme has increased for a range of reasons, including land costs and construction cost inflation. The benefits of substantial capital allocations to NDP projects by the Government have consequently been eroded to an extent. However, the rate of construction price inflation is now abating from a peak of 12% per annum over the period 1998 to 2000 to 9% in 2001 and a projected 5% in 2002. The Minister expects that this trend will continue in 2003. This will assist in achieving greater output for our investment.