Minister welcomes first Regional Development Committee

Regional Development Minister Conor Murphy, today welcomed the future contribution of the Regional Development Committee towards the challenges that face his Department.

At the first Regional Development Committee meeting the Minister said: “Roads, public transport, strategic and sustainable development and the provision of improved water and sewerage services, impact on every single person and our environment. All of this must be managed in an open, transparent and accountable way.

“There are difficult challenges to be addressed. One of my key priorities, and indeed the Executive’s is to secure an acceptable and sustainable way of funding water and sewerage services. We have tackled the short term issue of charges being introduced in 2007/2008 and we now need to consider the longer term. The Executive has announced a review and the immediate issue is agreeing the terms of reference for the review.

“I am also committed to ensuring that the public road network is managed, maintained and developed and the development of an efficient and effective public transport system in the north which promotes economic development and social inclusion. On PPS14, I have noted the views of the Programme for Government Sub-Committee on RPA and Rural Planning and will take these into account, along with the Public Consultation, as I consider the way ahead.

“I am looking forward to working with the Regional Development Committee and welcome hearing the Committee’s views on these issues that affect everyone’s lives."