Minister says transport is major spending priority

Spending on public transport and roads is now a major priority, alongside health and education, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State, Angela Smith, MP said today.

And she revealed that there will be total increase of £75 million spending on structural maintenance of roads over the next three years, bringing it to a record level of £70 million each year.

Speaking at the Institution of Highways and Transportation (Northern Ireland Branch) Annual Dinner, the Minister also highlighted the substantial investment being put into Translink’s bus and train replacement programme and the programme of major road schemes.

She said: “The recent Budget announcement is evidence of the clear and firm commitment to the implementation of the Regional Transportation Strategy, with a significant funding provision to support it over the next three financial years.

“There is a new confidence - and a commitment to making a difference. We are able to plan within a three-year horizon of certainty on funding. This has allowed commitment by the Department to necessary investment in public transport and to much needed schemes to relieve bottlenecks."

The Minister highlighted the vital role the Institution of Highways and Transport has played and will continue to play in achieving transportation objectives.

She said: “With a membership involved with the design, construction, maintenance and operation of sustainable transport systems and infrastructure, the Institution is ideally placed to contribute to and influence the future. It is a voice the Government recognises and welcomes at regional and national level.”

The Minister also emphasised that road safety is a key priority for government.

She added: “There has been a needless and unacceptable loss of life over the tragic first few months of 2003. The fact is that 95 per cent of collisions are down to road user error but we will continue to consider what else can be done to make our roads safer.

“I welcome the Institution’s contribution with its national road safety award, through which you have made it clear that safety is the most important responsibility of anyone involved in transport. I know that road safety is one of the cornerstones of the Institution.”

(MB)