SDLP Fairer Infrastructure Spokesperson Mark H Durkan has emphasised the need for an Infrastructure Commission to drive essential reforms for major capital projects.
He said a commission was key to ensuring projects like the A5 and A6 are delivered on time and within budget.
Last year the NI Audit Office reported that NI major capital projects would cost £2.45 billion more to complete than what was originally estimated.
Speaking after raising concerns with the deputy First Minister during question time around the failure to establish an Infrastructure Commission, Mr Durkan said: “The Executive’s track record on the delivery of major projects is lamentable
“They take far too much time and cost far too much money, it’s not just a recent phenomenon. In terms of the A5 and the A6, the delays getting this show on the road have had serious implications in terms of road safety and protecting lives.
“Figures which I received in relation to current significant major planning applications revealed that none of the applications had met the 30-week target, they haven’t even come close.
“One project has been stuck in limbo for over 9.5 years – that’s just astounding. The consequences of such delays are huge, from stifling economic growth to significantly hindering progress towards net zero targets.
“Doing nothing is not an option and that, if we do not change how we do things, we will not change how things are done.
“In 2021, the SDLP in government received Executive support for an Infrastructure Commission to revolutionise how key projects are delivered. Subsequent reports from the Audit Office on major capital projects have further supported the need for this provision.
“It’s deeply frustrating that four years on, the Executive are no closer to introducing this commission and delivering the change people deserve.
“This would ensure vital infrastructure projects are delivered on time and would help to prevent huge overspends before ground is even broken.
“An overhaul of the major capital projects system and improved accountability for how these projects are delivered is long overdue.”
