Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 26 Mar 1997

Vol. 477 No. 1

Written Answers. - Sale of Site.

Mary Harney

Question:

245 Miss Harney asked the Minister for the Marine if the Waterford Harbour Authority recently sold a site at Merchant's Quay, Waterford, to Bus Éireann; if this site was advertised for sale publicly; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8477/97]

Minister for the Marine (Mr. Barrett)

Plans by Waterford City Council for the road network on the north side of the City Bridge necessitated the relocation of Bus Éireann's offices and terminal to the South Quays which had not been used by Waterford Harbour Commissioners for shipping purposes for this last decade.

The site was not advertised for sale. The agreement with CIE reflected the special circumstances which involved the move from the location adjoining the railway station and the special value of the South Quays site because of its proximity to the station. I am satisfied that the consideration received for the site more than equalled its market value.

In response to a request from Waterford Harbour Commissioners, under section 159 of the Harbours Act, 1946, my predecessor indicated his approval in October 1993 for the sale of the site. The deeds of conveyance were finally signed and sealed by my Department on 10 April 1996.