asked the Minister for Communications if he is aware of the threat of the removal of the Sealink car ferry from Dún Laoghaire to Dublin port; if he is further aware that if this proposal is implemented it will be a source of great loss to the local business community; the action, if any, he intends taking on the matter; and if he will make a policy statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Sealink Car Ferry.
9.
I have received a report from the Dublin Port and Docks Board which details the advantages as seen by the board in locating a unified car ferry terminal for the Dublin area at Dublin Port to cater for both B & I and Sealink. I am also aware that opposition to the proposal has been expressed by Dún Laoghaire interests.
No decision on such a proposal will be taken without the widest consultation with all the interests concerned including Dún Laoghaire interests.
The unified car ferry terminal proposal has been before the Minister for some time. I understand the secretary of the Dublin Port and Docks Board is leading the propaganda campaign in favour of Dublin port and docks. Can the Minister say when he will come to a decision in relation to the unified car ferry terminal proposal? Is there any possibility of retaining B & I as a final option in Dublin port and allowing Sealink to continue on in their historic role in Dún Laoghaire? Can the Minister also say whether the Dún Laoghaire harbour authority have anything to offer in the context of the retention of a unified car ferry terminal or the retention of Sealink in Dún Laoghaire?
A local harbour authority would be very active in defending its traffic. That would be their principal role along with seeking further traffic. With regard to the proposal in general, I do not think a decision will be taken in the near future. It is important for the House to realise that our traditional ports policy has been to give open access to all ships. That means shipping companies can decide what port to come into. We cannot stop shipping companies changing from one port to another. However, I have to say I have no indication that any such thing is in prospect.