Vol. 551 No. 2
76 Mr. McDowell asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources if he has received final reports from the task force on transport logistics in regard to reduce container traffic from Dublin Port through the city centre, which he informed Dáil Éireann on 6 February 2002 was expected very shortly; when the report will be published; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9906/02]
I can confirm that the task force on transport logistics in connection with ports has submitted a final report to me. It is my intention to publish the report in the near future.
In relation to the reduction of container traffic from Dublin Port, my views on this issue are a matter of public record. It is essential that the feasibility be examined of locating a container storage facility for Dublin Port traffic on the periphery close to the M50, connected to the port preferably by rail with an operational capacity to work off-schedule. Late last year, without seeking to pre-empt the findings of the task force, I charged Dublin Port Company with responsibility to deliver on this initiative, either alone or in partnership with the private sector, with a view to significantly reducing container truck movements out of the centre of Dublin at peak times.
Dublin Port Company have since advertised for consultants to examine the feasibility of establishing such a container storage facility close to the M50. The closing date for receipt of pre-qualification proposals was 18 January 2002. The responses are currently being evaluated by the company to produce a shortlist of companies who will be requested to submit detailed tenders.
