Eamon Ryan
Question:560 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the plans or discussions he is having with regard to the privatisation of Dublin Port Company. [1986/03]
Written Answers. - Dublin Port Company.
I have no plans and I am having no discussions regarding the privatisation of Dublin Port Company. The company is one of ten port companies operating under the aegis of my Department. The Harbours Acts 1996 and 2000 provide that these companies are wholly owned by the State and I have no proposals to alter this.
As I have already informed the House, a high level review of the ports operating under the Harbours Acts 1996 and 2000 is currently under way. One of the aspects of the review is to examine the adequacy and appropriateness of the current model for ownership and the governance of the ports sector. The review will seek to identify and evaluate appropriate options for the ownership and corporate governance of the ports, including strategic alliance and wider share ownership possibilities and enhanced private sector involvement. The prime objective of the review is to identify how to ensure that the ports are structured so as to provide the best service to port users and the Irish economy. A secondary objective is to ensure that the ports have access to adequate funding to meet the longer term infrastructural needs of the traded sector of the economy. The study is fully inclusive and involves a full consultation process with all relevant stakeholders and interested parties.
As I stated publicly at the Irish Ports Association National Conference on 27 September last, I have an open mind as to the best management, operation and ownership arrangements for the ports industry and its customers.
I expect the review will be completed soon and I have undertaken to publish the findings and consult all stakeholders.