National Development Plan

NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT plan (NDP) capital expenditure is expected to decrease by almost 20 per cent in 2009 according to

Spending on transport and justice will see the biggest drop, decreasing by 24 per cent and 34 per cent respectively.

In 2008, the government spent almost €1 billion on public transport programmes. In 2009, this figure is expected to drop to €628 million.

Expenditure on prisons, courthouses and Garda stations under the NDP amounted to €232.8 million in 2008. It is estimated this expenditure will total €153.3 million in 2009.

Current expenditure under the NDP is expected to increase in 2009, with increases expected in education, social inclusion and housing programmes.

In 2008, the government spent €539.1 million on grants to VEC’s, adult education and student support. In 2009, it is predicted the spending will total €712 million.

Current expenditure on housing programmes is set to be €730 million in 2009, up from €564.4 million in 2008. Total national development plan expenditure amounted to more than €25 billion in 2008, while it is estimated that expenditure for 2009 will total nearly €24 billion.

Irish Times

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