asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will meet a deputation from Dundalk Harbour Board to discuss the serious position of the port in regard to reduced imports.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Dundalk Port: Harbour Board Deputation.
The choice of the port of importation is the concern of the commercial interests involved and I have no power to direct trade to any particular port. If, however, there is some particular aspect of the position at Dundalk Harbour not related to commercial considerations, the Parliamentary Secretary will be available to meet representatives of the Harbour Board to discuss this aspect.
Would the Minister be prepared to meet a deputation to discuss general matters in relation to this provincial port, possibly to give them some advice or some useful information?
Yes, so long as it is quite clear that I have no power to compel people to use any particular port.
Has the Minister received a request for the reception of a deputation?
I think so; I am not quite sure.