2014 – the year of the new Delta Plan
The Delta Programme 2015, comprising the Delta Decisions and preferred strategies, was published on Prinsjesdag, the state opening of Parliament in September, and adopted when the administrative agreement was signed by all governments involved. Following consideration at the end of November the House of Representatives also recognised its importance. This means that we can proceed with the Delta Plan for the 21st century.
In the thirty years ahead, we will be focusing on improving our flood protection and securing a sufficient supply of fresh water, together with the provincial and municipal authorities and the water boards. Together we will draw up the plans and take a good look at all the interests. In this period of time, we will be investing 20 billion euros in our delta.
Another highlight this year was our annual National Delta Conference. On 6 November, the ever growing Delta Community convened in Amersfoort. We discussed the future of our country with some 1600 delegates. Inspiring! Especially due to the involvement of a large number of students, young water professionals and the youth water board. After all, they will be the ones implementing the plans we are making now. It is of great importance that they are already involved and participating to such a large extent. Thus, they will be prepared in time. The work on the delta is never finished. In 2015, together with all the parties involved, we will proceed with the implementation of the new Delta Plan.
The new Delta Plan is transparent and offers plenty of opportunities. In a recent issue of the NRC newspaper for example, RABO executive Wiebe Draijer stressed the importance of accelerating the Delta Plan in order to boost the economy. Quite understandable. I agree that we must make good time. The implementation of the “New Delta Plan for the 21st century” involves an investment of some 20 billion euros. That is a considerable sum. Up to 2028, the Delta Fund provides for approx. 700 million euros annually for investments. On Prinsjesdag I recommended to the Cabinet that the Delta Fund be continued. The implementation of the new Delta Plan will take some 30 years. Whether this is an acceptable timeframe is a political issue, as I have stated on many occasions. The pace at which we can proceed will also depend on the time required to prepare all the projects for implementation. Careful preparation takes time. Each and every project involves spatial measures. Another factor is market capacity. What can the market handle? Is the market equipped for this new flow of investments? As the Delta Commissioner, it is my responsibility to submit an annual proposal to the Cabinet and the House of Representatives concerning measures to be taken and to report on the progress made. In my report, I will most certainly consider the speed of the implementation.
I am looking forward to what is in store for us! For now, I wish you all a Happy Christmas and a beautiful new Delta Year.
Wim Kuijken, Delta Commissioner