The Taoiseach’s decision to ‘defer’ at least €40 million in the Gateway Innovation Fund as a cost-cutting measure will hinder development in the south-east, according to Fine Gael Deputy Phil Hogan.
The environment spokesman said the gateway fund which is part of the National Development Plan would ensure the improvement and upgrade of local infrastructure and help the region recover from its current economic difficulties.
“The Government promised that they would not cut back on essential infrastructure which would help build up our gateway cities,” stated Mr Hogan.
He added that government pride in its failed pet projects had prevented it from seeing economic sense. “The government insists on holding onto E-Voting machines, a failed project which has cost over €51.8 million to date. This is an unbelievable option, especially given that these machines continue to cost a huge amount of money to store; €2.8 million in the last four years.
“In the face of such blatant financial waste, the government made the wrong decision and has done nothing to aid an economic recovery.” He added; “and nowhere is this more evident than in the government decision to cut the Gateway Innovation Fund.”
Deputy Hogan also criticised government spending. “The government promised to cut advertising and PR as part of its package of measures. However Minister Gormley insists on lashing out €15 million to make the people of Ireland believe that their problems are being solved. This government has bought more publicity for itself than any previous government.
“Brian Cowen and company may cite external factors in order to try and convince Ireland that they are not responsible. However, every part of this package of measures is a confession of failure on the part of ministers to take action,” he concluded.
