Leitrim councillor calls for a new ministerial role to be established
A local councillor has called for the establishment of a minister of Construction and Infrastructure Delivery role
Cllr Justin Warnock (FF) tabled a motion at last week’s meeting of the County Council, outlining why this position is needed.
“Ireland needs a dedicated Cabinet Minister for Construction and Infrastructure Delivery to address the growing gap between Government funding commitments and the funding of these vital projects,” his motion stated.
“So therefore we call on An Taoiseach Micheal Martin TD and the Government to appoint a Minister with specific responsibility for the delivery of state funded construction projects and ensuring better co-ordination between Departments and faster delivery of housing, healthcare, education and transport infrastructure,” the motion added.
Speaking on his motion, Cllr Warnock said, “Money is being thrown at projects but they are not being progressed. A Minister for Construction would be dedicated year on year to work on this.”
“No-one is held to account at present, this Minister would take responsibility,” he added.
Cllr Felim Gurn (Ind) told the meeting that, “I support the motion. Tenders are going out for jobs and there are delays.”
Cllr Enda McGloin (FG) said that, “Inflation in construction costs are a factor. The war in the middle east is a catalyst for this. Construction needs to be streamlined.”
Cllr Eddie Mitchell sounded a note of caution on the idea of a dedicated Minister for Construction. “I am a contractor myself. I would worry about having a Minister for Construction. This could result in Corporates bypassing the protections that we have at present,” he stated.
Cllr Padraig Fallon (SF) didn’t agree with the motion. “We don’t need additional ministers. Failing to deliver on projects is the failure of the Government and the relevant department,” he commented.
His party colleague Brendan Barry had a similar view.
“A new Minister would muddy the waters. The responsibility for delivery lies with the department.
“Ministers in departments should be responsible for delivery in departments,” he stated.