Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 19 December 2013
28. Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he is concerned at the lack of competition in Dublin Port in terminal operations and stevedore services; if he is concerned at the pricing of services at Dublin Port compared to other European ports; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54397/13]
View answerThe Deputy is right to highlight the importance in ensuring competitive conditions within our ports sector. Last month the Competition Authority published its review of competition in the ports sector. The report is a thorough analysis of competition within the sector and my Department is currently examining it in detail. The Competition Authority's report states that competition is working well in areas but does make a total of six recommendations for consideration which it believes will 'further improve' competition in the sector.
In relation to Dublin Port, the Competition Authority has made two specific recommendations to further enhance the competitive conditions within the port. As part of my Department's overall consideration of the report, officials will write to the Company shortly to seek their views on the recommendations. As stated in the National Ports Policy, I am committed to issuing a reasoned response to the report within six months of publication.
