Ivan Yates
Question:219 Mr. Yates asked the Minister for the Marine if there is a monopoly stevedoring arrangement in all ports under the Harbours Act, 1946; and if so, if he will outline the details.
Written Answers. - Dock Labour-Stevedoring Services.
Ivan Yates
Question:220 Mr. Yates asked the Minister for the Marine if a dock labour scheme is in operation in all ports; and if so, if he will outline the details of same.
I propose to take Questions Nos. 219 and 220 together.
A dock labour scheme is not in operation in all ports. The bulk of ports have no dock labour scheme.
In relation to stevedoring arrangements the bulk of ports operating under the Harbours Act, 1946 do not have monopoly stevedoring arrangements. The ports of Limerick, Kinsale and Youghal each currently use a single stevedoring company.
Rationalisation of stevedoring arrangements in ports and the provision of competitive and economic arrangements for cargo handling is primarily the responsibility of the relevant harbour authorities and the companies and workers involved. As Minister for the Marine I have no statutory powers in relation to dock labour or stevedoring services.