Paul Bradford (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister for the comprehensive reply. While he has not given me any information of which I was unaware, I note his point that "capital funding is still very constrained presenting real difficulties in relation to" projects such as this. Knowing his deep interest in politics and economics, this restrained nature of our capital funding is something upon which we must reflect. The choice the Minister and his Cabinet colleagues will have to make in the near future will be about future planning for this country and whether we invest in short-term - I hate to use the word - "auction-style" politics or in profound deep meaningful capital projects.

If one looks at the capital project about which we speak, it will bring benefits for generations to come. Not only will it create jobs and enhance the environment, it will save lives. The Minister mentioned, for instance, the short-term expenditure of almost €10 million on safety and minor improvement works and that will have to continue year after year until this major project is considered. I ask the Minister to think big. Within the Department and in the debates, arguments and engagement with the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform, the Minister will have to make the case that capital development and capital infrastructure is vital for the future long-term enhancement of this country. It is a question of the difference between a short-term perspective and a long-term perspective, between the politics we have had for generations and a new politics, and between investing in the future and simply looking to the next election.

I hope the Minister will have a meaningful exchange with his colleague, the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform, on this project and other projects for which capital funding into the future is hugely important. I ask the Minister to look to the future and try to get projects such as the completion of the M20 up and running. The future development of this country depends on such projects, as opposed to short-term developments such as the repair of a bend on the road or the provision of safety measures. I hope that 20 or 25 years from now, we will be looking back at decisions that were taken in the interests of the long-term good of the country, rather than with short-term considerations in mind. We need urgent action on this very important long-term requirement, which should be prioritised by the Minister, Deputy Howlin. The full support of the Minister is needed to try to get action and funding from the Minister, Deputy Howlin. I thank the Cathaoirleach for giving me a little leeway in raising this important subject.