asked the Minister for Tourism and Transport if any initiatives are currently being taken to establish a monopoly situation with regard to stevedoring in Dublin Port; and if he considers that such a monopoly would be in the public interest.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Dublin Port Stevedoring.
28.
Stevedoring services are provided by individual enterprises and are not subject to statutory regulation by my Department. I understand that there are at present nine separate firms engaged in the stevedoring business in Dublin Port. I understand also that there may be a tendency towards amalgamation of firms and that this may provide greater flexibility in meeting the fluctuating demands of trade and providing more secure employment for dock workers. In view, however, of the competition that exists in the business the question of a monopoly does not seem to arise in present circumstances.
I take it the Minister would be opposed to a monopoly situation if it developed. Would be agree or disagree? Would he approve of it?
I do not think there will be a monopoly. Probably it would be preferable to have competition.
Does the Minister not agree that the same view would apply in regard to helicopters?
Or letters from a prospective Minister.
The Opposition seem to be extraordinarily disturbed about letters and kites. That is part of the reason why they are over there. They should think about the future and be constructive.
(Interruptions.)
Order.
Regarding the question of a monopoly in Dublin Port, does the Minister consider that the port would be better serviced by one overall body?
I am in a kind of quandary about this. On the one hand, I agree that where there is a larger body it has provided more security for employees. On the other hand, I suppose a monopoly situation might create different types of problems.