Brian O'Shea
Question:103 Mr. O'Shea asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources his views on the concerns of persons (details supplied) in county Waterford; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29640/01]
Written Answers. - Waterford Harbour Commissioners.
As the Deputy is aware, the issues of concern to which the question refers date back to 1992 and involved Waterford Harbour Commissioners as the predecessor body to the Port of Waterford Company and representatives of fishermen from Cheekpoint, County Waterford. I have sought a report from the port company and I am advised as follows: the nature of the settlement agreed between both sides was entirely arbitrary with payment being made to identified licence holders but in the absence of identified proof as to the actual losses incurred. In the course of protracted negotiations, no objections were raised to those representing the fishermen. In these circumstances, the port authority conducted negotiations and agreed the eventual settlement in good faith and in the belief that the negotiators were representative of all the affected parties.