Question Time: Regional Development Monday 4 November 2013
Sandra
Overend took the opportunity during topical
questions to the Minister for Regional Development, Danny Kennedy, to find
out what plans were in place for the legacy of the Giro d’Italia (the world
famous cycling event which will be coming
to Northern Ireland in May 2014). Mr Kennedy confirmed that, after the
launch of his Department’s new
cycling unit, he is in the opportune position to take the lead on the
project which should see the promotion of cycling in Northern Ireland and of tourism
in Belfast and along the Antrim coast.
During the scheduled
Oral Questions Pam Brown asked the Minister why there was no appointment of
a new chief executive of NI Water despite a thorough HR process. Mr Kennedy
explained that the NI Water Board and Penna plc (an executive search company
hired to assist in the recruitment process) created a shortlist of four
candidates however they were not considered to have met the full competencies
required for the post. While the Minister conceded that the £70,000 cost of the
failed process is regrettable, it is “important to secure the best candidate”
for the position. His Department will be working with the NI Water Board to
move quickly in resolving the situation.
Mr Kennedy
was also questioned by Brenda Hale on traffic problems in Hillsborough
following the completion of the A1 flyover. The Minister confirmed that surveys
showed that traffic was leaving the A1 junction to travel through the centre of
Hillsborough village due to delays experienced at the Hillsborough roundabout. This
has seen a 124% increase of traffic through the village. He admitted that it is
proving “difficult to find a practical solution to the difficulties” but that
the Roads Service has commissioned consultants to review all options for a
satisfactory solution.
The Minister
also provided updates on the possibility of wind turbines in the Silent Valley
area and the current situation regarding disabled access at Ballymoney Railway
Station.
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