Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 24 Jan 1995

Vol. 447 No. 11

Written Answers. - Drogheda (Louth) Port.

Michael Bell

Question:

282 Mr. Bell asked the Minister for the Marine the plans, if any, he has to give sanction to the Drogheda Harbour Commissioners proposal to provide for a deep sea berth at Tom Roe's Point, Drogheda, Country Louth; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that only ships up to 92 metres maximum are allowed into Drogheda Port which is severely restricting the viability and future development of the port; his views on whether the port and related activity is a vital part of the overall development of Drogheda and the Border region; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3901/94]

Minister for the Marine (Mr. Coveney)

The EU Transport Operational Programme 1994-99 was adopted in November 1994.

This Programme sets out the detailed allocations and criteria on the basis of which specific port project proposals will be assessed.

The proposals advanced by Drogheda Harbour Commissioners (involving the provision of a 100 metre berth at Tom Roe's Point) and other harbour authorities will be addressed as soon as possible within that framework.

Drogheda is an important regional port with bulk trade of 504,000 tonnes principally in magnesite, fertiliser, cement, petroleum products, grain and animal feed.