Critical Infrastructure Bill must be accompanied by long-term spatial plans and procurement reform to end crisis response cycle
The Critical Infrastructure Bill must be accompanied by long-term spatial plans if the Government is to meet the demands of Ireland’s growing population. Unless infrastructure is planned in a comprehensive, long-term and integrated manner, only the most urgent gaps will be dealt with and Ireland will not exit “emergency mode” when it comes to housing, electricity and water.
Speaking following the publication of the Critical Infrastructure Bill, the RIAI urged the Government to introduce long-term development plans.
“We need statutory development plans that look 25 to 50 years ahead if we’re serious about providing clarity on infrastructure. This is standard practice in major European capital cities and it is what gives governments, investors and communities the confidence to commit resources to long-term infrastructure delivery,” said RIAI President, Fionnuala May.
The RIAI welcomed the reduction of red tape and bureaucracy in the planning process when it comes to infrastructure development. Specifically, the RIAI welcomed the fact that the Bill will allow the Government to select critical infrastructure projects in water, energy and transport (subject to Oireachtas approval) to be fast-tracked. The RIAI believes that the expedition of key projects in these areas will create the conditions for Ireland to address our housing deficit in the coming years.
The RIAI President also pointed to procurement reform as a crucial next step in accelerating infrastructure delivery. “Targeted reform of the public procurement process is vital to meeting our public infrastructure goals. This means early intervention at the planning stage; strengthening the tender process, ensuring that high design standards, embracing innovation and supporting effective collaboration among all teams involved.”
The RIAI stressed that the Bill gives limited attention to design quality and the vital role of architects in delivering well built, cost effective and long-lasting public infrastructure.
The quality of the design is critical to achieve the best long-term value. It improves public outcomes and provides better returns on investment for the State. Strategic infrastructure requires cross-government coordination, forward planning and evidence-based design, with architects playing a central role in this process,” said RIAI President, Fionnuala May.
The RIAI said it is available to engage with Ministers, Departments and all stakeholders to support changes that will improve quality and speed up delivery. The Institute is committed to helping meet Ireland’s infrastructure and housing needs by ensuring Ireland builds not only more infrastructure, but more enduring, inclusive and sustainable places that deliver real long-term value for its people.
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