Take this road
Page 2
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PRIVATE capital for road building is a new concept. It appears to be so obvious that we are bound to ask: why was it not thought of years ago?
There is no real difference in financial terms between constructing buildings and roads. The private sector has the money available, the Exchequer has not and that is surely the most important factor.
The advantages are that the country would receive a longterm loan and the construction of our road network would move ahead.
In human terms it means that many thousands of people would find employment. Dole queues would reduce, with consequent savings in social security. Another bonus for the Government.
It is little wonder then that the Government is reported to be keen on the idea. There should be no opposition. But that will be asking too much. There will be lobbies against tearing up hedgerows and green fields. It will come from the same people who want to ban heavy lorries from inadequate roads.
They can not have it both ways. Road construction will be good for every sector of the community.
The Government should accept the private sector's offer of finance at an early date. They could then go ahead with a realistic, well-planned road construction programme.