Ivor Callely
Question:25 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for the Marine the issues, if any, to which he has given consideration in connection with the development of Dublin Port; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11229/97]
Written Answers. - Dublin Port Development.
On 3 March 1997 Dublin Port was one of eight ports vested as a commercial semi-State company under the Harbours Act, 1996. The effect of this is that the new Dublin Port Company will be able to operate as a commercial enterprise, free from undue control by the State.
The current investment programme for Dublin Port of some £36.0 million is co-financed through my Department by the EU from the Operational Programme for Transport, the Cohesion Fund and Ireland/Wales Maritime INTERREG Comunity Initiative and continues until 1999.
While the State remains the sole shareholder, and as such will operate a broad system of corporate goverance, the new structure of Dublin Port Company will mean that the port is free to manage and develop its services on a commercial basis. At the same time the company's accountability for operational and financial performance will be increased. Dublin Port is being given the infrastructure and flexibility to operate efficiently, effectively and ultimately to the benefit of exporters, the agricultural and industrial sectors, tourism and the economy as a whole.