Seán Ó Fearghaíl (Kildare South, Fianna Fail)
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Question 200: To ask the Minister for Finance his views on the impact of circular letter L5/08 of 6 May 2008 on critical infrastructural projects that have advanced to tender stage via the conventional method and with the approval of the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government; if his attention has been drawn to a report (details supplied) which indicates that vital projects in County Kildare might be delayed by as much as 18 months; if it is his intention that local authorities will have to recommence the planning process for such schemes; his views on whether the expected cost of the project will be increased, rather than reduced, as intended by the circular; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22994/08]

Brian Lenihan Jnr (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)
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The issues raised by the Deputy arise from the introduction of new forms of contract in October 2006 designed to achieve better value for money for the State. An extended transitional period of 15 months in all was allowed for local authorities to put the new arrangements in place. The Deputy will appreciate that transitional periods cannot last forever and the period in question came to an end last February. I have asked my Department nonetheless to examine the points raised by the Deputy and to revert to me in due course.