Vol. 482 No. 3
83 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources the plans, if any, he has to complete an investigation into pay levels, structures and related matters at all port companies similar to that which is being completed at Foynes Port Company, County Limerick. [18051/97]
84 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources if he will give details of the report of the investigation which the independent consultant completed at Foynes Port Company, County Limerick. [18052/97]
85 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources the date of completion of the investigation into pay levels, structures and related matters at Foynes Port Company, Limerick. [18053/97]
86 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources the terms of reference given to the independent consultant that he has engaged to carry out an investigation into pay levels, structures and related matters at the Foynes Port Company, County Limerick. [18054/97]
87 Mr. Finucane asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources the terms of reference of the consultant who has been appointed to investigate the port activities at Foynes, County Limerick; when the findings of the investigation will be published; if he will be carrying out similar investigations to the one in Foynes on other commercial semi-State ports; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18055/97]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 83 to 87, inclusive together.
On 24 October I appointed Mr. Dermot Rochford, an independent consultant, to carry out an investigation into pay levels, structures and related matters at Foynes Port Company and to prepare a report on the organisation and management of the company and the performance by it of each of its functions in relation to its finances and the members of its staff.
While it is not possible to give an exact timeframe for submission of the completed report to me by the independent consultant, I expect to have it shortly. I will take whatever action is necessary on foot of this investigation including publication of the findings, if appropriate to ensure that the essential commercial mandate of the Foynes Port Company is discharged fully.
At my direction the Department has recently sought details of the remuneration levels for other port chief executives and management staff.
Notwithstanding the outcome of the investigation under way and other inquiries, public sector guidelines and policy requirements place the onus on port companies and authorities to ensure that remuneration levels for their staff are appropriately aligned and in conformity with the public service norms.
