New Decade, New Approach Statement
10 January 2020 11:47
“I welcome the ‘New Decade, New Approach’ draft deal and in particular the priority both governments have placed on transforming public services - specifically, that the restored Executive will invest urgently in wastewater infrastructure which is at or nearing capacity, limiting growth in our economy.
“NI Water’s latest strategy has identified the need to invest £2.5bn to begin addressing historic underinvestment. In Belfast alone, £1bn is required to tackle wastewater, flooding and drainage problems within the ‘Living with Water Programme’. Without investment in critical water infrastructure across Northern Ireland, it will not be possible to deliver other priorities in the draft deal in areas such as housing, city deals or developing our tourism sector.
“I further welcome the commitment to “Leaner Government”. This has the potential to deliver greater efficiencies in our sector and create better value for the public purse. The pledge to multi-year funding and the news that there will be a review of Arm’s Length Bodies is also a positive step.
“NI Water stands ready to ensure that Northern Ireland can fulfil its potential to have a cleaner, greener and more prosperous future. Restoration of devolved government and political direction, if underpinned by the required levels of funding, will ensure this will happen.”
ENDS
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