Vol. 509 No. 5
47 Mr. Bell asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources the plans, if any, his Department has to implement the conclusions of the review of regional ports and harbours; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19900/99]
66 Mr. Higgins (Mayo) asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources if he will transfer the ownership and management of Ballina harbour to Ballina Urban District Council; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18687/99]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 47 and 66 together.
As the Deputies are aware, I recently published a major independent review of the State's 16 commercial regional ports and harbours, including the River Moy harbour which the Deputy refers to as Ballina harbour. The River Moy harbour is located outside the area of Ballina UDC. The recommendation in the study is that the River Moy harbour would be transferred to Mayo County Council.
The review develops a general strategic framework for the ports and harbours concerned which aims to maximise their financial sustainability, their contribution to strategic maritime policy objectives and socio-economic impacts.
Following publication of the report I initiated a full consultative process. While I am aware that the consultants met and took on board the views of relevant interests, including those of the port authorities and management and other interested State, tourism and local commercial development bodies, I believe that it is essential that all stakeholders and interests are given an opportunity to comment on the recommendations which emerged from the review in advance of any decisions being made.
All harbour authorities, including the River Moy Harbour Commissioners, are being consulted in this regard.
As the Deputies 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 those regional ports in the interests of the local economy and those who depend on them for their livelihoods.
