As the Deputy may be aware, a major independent review of the States' 16 commercial regional ports, including Baltimore harbour, was published last year. 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 review, a full consultative process was initiated to give all stakeholders and interests a chance to comment on the recommendations of the review in advance of any decisions being made.
In Baltimore's case, the independent consultancy review recommends that the harbour be transferred to Cork County Council. Baltimore and Skibbereen Harbour Commissioners have indicated that they believe the best way forward is for the County Council to take over the running of the harbour. The development requirements of Baltimore harbour can only be considered in the context of such a transfer, competing demands for funding from the other regional ports which were the subject of the review, the overall priorities for coastal infrastructure development, and in light of funding available under the National Development Plan 2000-2006.