Vol. 533 No. 1
62 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources the response he has received to his Department's letter of May 2001 to 22 port authorities seeking their opinion on the suitability of berthing flotels for use as accommodation for asylum seekers; if he has appointed or intends to appoint a consultant to assess offers of berthages; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8134/01]
On foot of the inquiry issued to port authorities on the availability of suitable berthage to accommodate flotels, detailed responses were received from each of the nine port companies and nine harbour authorities which operate under the aegis of my Department.
The reports specified the technical feasibility, safety considerations and constraints on accommodating such vessels and have been made available to both the directorate for asylum support services of the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform and the Office of Public Works. Following discussion with both offices, my Department has agreed to facilitate the contraction of a suitably qualified independent consultant to review the reports received and to determine whether there is any suitable and available berthage accommodation which could cater for flotels, with particular reference to health and safety requirements.
My Department will continue to work closely with both offices in relation to availability of flotel accommodation at State seaports and will provide whatever assistance or maritime technical expertise is required to progress the matter.
