asked the Minister for Transport the up-to-date situation in regard to the reported sale negotiations of the Gulf Oil terminal at Bantry, County Cork; and if he will make a statement on the future of the terminal.
Written Answers. - Bantry Oil Terminal.
193.
I am aware that the Gulf Oil Company are involved in negotiations for the sale of the Bantry Bay Terminal. The company have formally requested my consent to the assignment of the lease of the relevant areas of foreshore at Whiddy Island when the sale has been completed.
The assignment, sub-letting or other disposal of the Gulf Oil Terminals (Ireland) Limited interest in the foreshore lease requires my prior consent in writing and is subject to whatever conditions I may impose. I am having the position examined in consultation with the other Departments concerned and having regard, in particular, to the publication shortly of the report of the tribunal of inquiry into the Betelgeuse disaster. I will not be in a position to comment further until this examination has been completed.