Vol. 509 No. 1
129 Mr. Spring asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources if he will transfer ownership of all the assets, liabilities, rights and obligations of Tralee and Fenit Harbour Commission to Tralee Urban District Council for the future management of the port. [19533/99]
As the Deputy may be aware, I have recently published a major independent review of the State's 16 commercial regional ports and harbours including Tralee and Fenit. The report recommends that Tralee and Fenit Harbour merge with Shannon Estuary Ports Company. On foot of the report I have initiated a full consultative process which will allow each harbour authority and all stakeholders and interests to comment on the recommendations which emerged from the review in advance of any decisions being made. In this connection Tralee and Fenit Harbour Commissioners are being consulted and I am aware of the views of Tralee Urban District Council who wish to take over responsibility for the harbour.
As the Deputy will appreciate I cannot pre-empt the outcome of the consultative process which will help me to determine the most appropriate and beneficial future management/ operation arrangements for the harbour in the interests of the local economy and those who depend on the harbour for their livelihoods.
