€8bn spent on National Development Plan

More than €8bn has been spent on improving infrastructure and community development as the National Development Plan (NDP) enters its third year.

Despite acknowledgement that the plan has fallen behind schedule there is confidence it will be completed on time.

Director of the NDP in the Border, Midlands and Western (BMW) region, Gerry Finn says he believes the Government is committed to completing the major infrastructural projects in the NDP.

He said improved infrastructure is crucial in attracting investment to the BMW region.

He added progress has been delayed as a result of the stand-off between the farmers and the National Roads Authority but delays would be overcome.

This confidence was matched by Stephen Blair of the Southern and Eastern Regional Assembly, who said he is confident all targets would be met.

The seven-year plan will cost €40bn in all.