Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael)
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Project Ireland 2040 encompasses Ireland’s clear long-term strategy for capital investment as set out in the National Development Plan 2021 – 2030 (NDP). The successful delivery of Project Ireland 2040 is an essential element in securing Ireland’s economic, social and environmental sustainability over the next two decades. This government’s €165 billion investment through the NDP is already providing vital infrastructure across the country including homes, schools, and primary healthcare centres. On 5 October 2023 I published the Project Ireland 2040 Annual Report for 2022 which highlights the delivery of publicly funded capital projects throughout the country last year.

Accompanying the 2022 Annual Report were three Regional Reports which provide a detailed synopsis of the public investments which have been made in three Regional Assembly Areas: the Eastern and Midland Region, the Northern and Western Region and the Southern Region. The reports are all available on www.gov.ie/2040. 2022 saw clear progress in the delivery of major capital projects. Some examples highlighting achievements in delivery in 2022 include:

• In the Education sector: Investment in the School Building Programme exceeded €1 billion;
• in the Health sector: seven Community Nursing Units were completed including Clonakilty Community Hospital in Cork. Two Ambulance Bases were completed at Ardee and Mullingar;
• in the transport sector: Construction was ongoing in major road projects: N5 Westport to Turlough; N22 Ballyvourney to Macroom and the M8/N25 Dunkettle Interchange. Clear progress was made on the goal of delivering a more environmentally sustainable public transport system including BusConnects;
• in the Housing sector: 7,433 social housing new builds delivered;
• in support of regional connectivity: Over 109,000 homes, farms and businesses had a network connection available by the end of 2022 as the roll-out of the National Broadband Plan continued.

This government is firmly committed to ensuring that the level of investment is maintained and moreover securing the continued and timely delivery of NDP projects and programmes. The overall gross capital allocation recently announced in the Budget Expenditure Report for 2024, will be €13.1 billion, this marks an increase of €1 billion over the 2023 gross capital allocation of €12.1 billion. The 2024 allocation will continue to fund vital infrastructure in areas such as housing, transport, sport, education, enterprise, sport and climate action to provide good outcomes for our people.