John Ellis (Fianna Fail)

I thank the Minister for listening to our debate on the motion. It is obvious from Senators across the House that everybody accepts that major progress has been made on infrastructure and public transport. We all accept that and want to see it continue. This motion shows the Government is committed to Transport 21. Over the past month the Taoiseach, Minister and previous Taoiseach have made it clear that infrastructure will be a priority. If we are to have the development that it is said can take place in our economy, it is imperative we have a proper road and rail network and that Dublin has the Luas extensions and the metro. These are very important to Dublin. The quality bus corridors and other developments under Transport 21 will lead to a much improved transport service that will be on a par with anything available anywhere else in the world.

I compliment all the Ministers who have had responsibility for Transport 21. Deputy Cullen launched it and Deputy Dempsey is responsible, along with Deputy Noel Ahern, for its implementation. This House should continue to have regular debates on infrastructure and how it is being improved. It is very important we continue to make the public aware of the progress that has been made on infrastructure and the progression of Transport 21. It was seen as a major initiative by the Government and when completed it will benefit every citizen of this country in one way or another.

It was mentioned that some areas may not be seen to benefit as much as others. However, as I said earlier, in the part of the country I come from the benefits of Transport 21 can be seen in the road and rail infrastructure that has been improved no end, leading to people in the west and north west being able to access Dublin much more quickly than in the old days. The motion should be commended to the House.