Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 25 Mar 1997

Vol. 476 No. 7

Written Answers. - Drogheda Port Development Works.

Michael Bell

Question:

431 Mr. Bell asked the Minister for the Marine when a final decision will be taken regarding the discharge of spoil from the River Boyne in respect of Rois Point Deep Sea Port Project and the dredging of the river; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that delays outside the control of the harbour board are causing great concern for the future of this scheme; his views on these concerns; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8174/97]

Minister for the Marine (Mr. Barrett)

I will make a final decision in relation to the dredging and disposal of spoil in connection with the proposed development works at Drogheda Port when all the factors in relation to the project have been fully considered. The proposal from Drogheda Port Company includes the reclamation of an area of foreshore using dredge spoil. For this reason the overall project requires environmental impact assessment and the publication of an EIS as part of the application. Following the initial examination of the proposal a number of issues have been raised with the company where additional information is required.

When it is clear that these concerns have been addressed, I will accept the company's application and require publication of the EIS for public consultation.

The impact of the proposal on nature conservation in the area is being addressed by the National Parks and Wildlife Service and I will take account of the opinion of the Minister for Arts, Culture and the Gaeltacht, in relation to these aspects.

I can assure you that this application will be dealt with as expeditiously as possible and the concerns of all parties fully considered before I will make a final decision.