A framework for Public Private Partnerships (PPPs) has been developed by the Government to assess the appropriateness of PPPs for infrastructure projects. The framework will guide the implementation of PPPs, taking into account the wider economic, social and environmental objectives that should guide infrastructural development.
The Public-Private Informal Advisory Group (IAG) was responsible for producing the framework and is chaired by the head of the central PPP unit of the Department of Finance. The group consists of representatives of Irish Business and Employers Confederation, Irish Congress of Trade Unions, Construction Industry Federation as well as the main departments and agencies currently engaged in the PPP programme.
The production of this document fulfills the requirement in the Programme for Prosperity and Fairness, which calls for the development of a clear framework.
At the launch of the framework, Minister for Finance, Charlie McCreevy said it confirms the commitment of the social partners to the development of public private partnerships in Ireland.
‘It reflects the Government’s determination to harness the potential of PPPs: to contribute, where possible, to the timely delivery of priority economic infrastructure projects under the National Development Plan, to ensure value for money for the taxpayer and to provide quality public services.
The main features of the framework include clear statements of the scope, principles and goals of the PPP programme, the identification of key project implementation issues, as well as a clear recognition of the critical role of social partnership and stakeholder consultation in underpinning the success of PPPs.
The Government believes that PPPs can make a significant contribution to the delivery of priority economic infrastructure projects under the National Development plan and to the provision of quality public services. However, they recognize the fact that there must be a broad consensus in relation to the scope of PPPs, and the process through which PPP projects will be developed. |
