The Department of Finance is at present revising the capital appraisal guidelines for public investment projects, which will issue shortly. The objective is to ensure the use by Departments and agencies of the best appraisal and evaluation techniques and optimal efficiency in the execution of major capital projects. The ultimate objective must be to ensure as far as possible that only the most economically justifiable projects receive priority and that all projects are executed on time and within budget. While the Department of Finance will issue guidance, however, it cannot and will not manage individual projects for Departments and agencies. The onus must remain with the latter as regards programme and project management.