I propose to take Questions Nos. 301 to 304, inclusive, together.
I am aware that Dublin Port Company has made an application to An Bord Pleanála under the Planning and Development (Strategic Infrastructure) Act 2006 to reclaim 21 hectares, in order to facilitate proposed infrastructure development.
While planning applications are operational matters for the port company, the strategic infrastructure planning regulations list a number of "prescribed bodies" that must be consulted by An Bord Pleanála prior to any decision being reached. In this instance, the Minister for Transport is such a "prescribed body" and can, therefore, expect to be consulted on the application as part of the planning process.
The National Development Plan 2007-2013 provides for a comprehensive study of the role of Dublin Port, taking account of locational considerations, in the context of overall ports policy on the island of Ireland, wider transport policy, urban development policy, the National Spatial Strategy and national economic policy. My Department has commissioned Indecon International Economic Consultants to undertake this study and a final report is expected in early 2009.
The political agreements that An Taoiseach's predecessor entered into, as leader of Fianna Fáil, with certain deputies are confidential, but they are, as always, based upon the Programme for Government, which incorporates the National Development Plan, approved Government programmes and the annual estimates.