Murphy sets out day ahead at DRD Headquarters

Regional Development Minister Conor Murphy is today back at departmental headquarters.

Setting out the day ahead, the Minister said: "I have requested a series of key meetings today, including meetings with the Head of the Civil Service Bruce Robinson, and with my new Permanent Secretary Malcolm McKibbin and the senior DRD management team.

"I will also be meeting with the interim Non-Executive Board Directors of NI Water, and have arranged to speak with interim NI Water Board Chair Padraic White who is currently abroad."

He added "In addition I look forward to briefing the Regional Development Committee on 1 September. I will also brief the Assembly at the first available opportunity."

Speaking about the work of his department, the Minister said: "The core work of my Department continues, and I remain committed to and focused on the delivery of services including water provision, roads, ports and public transport and to ensuring the best use of public finances within my department."

Commenting in relation to matters under investigation, the Minister said: "Matters relating to the Independent Review Team report and the governance failures at NI Water, and separately events following the PAC hearing on NI Water which led to the suspension of Paul Priestly are now both the subject of inquiry. I consider these investigations to be the right and proper course of action."

Notes to editors:

1. Media queries to DRD Press Office 028 90 540004. Out of hours contact the duty press officer via pager number 07699715440 and your call will be returned.