Ports Development

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 20 June 2019

Thursday, 20 June 2019

Questions (187)

Catherine Murphy

Question:

187. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he has been consulted regarding the cost-benefit analysis study that Dublin Port Company commissioned to examine if an investment in berths at North Wall Quay is made; his plans to make a contribution to the cost-benefit analysis in the context of making Dublin a cruise destination as a home port or stop over destination; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25942/19]

Written answers

Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport

I met with Dublin Port Company recently regarding its capital development plans and rationale for prioritisation in the context of Brexit, as well as the specifics with regard to cruise berths. At the meeting, Dublin Port outlined the ambitious development programme underway to provide additional cargo handling capacity at the port to cater for the growing economy.

Dublin Port Company advised that they are currently carrying out an economic cost benefit analysis study on a proposal to extend the North Wall Quay to provide berths suitable for the largest cruise ships. They intend to publish this study as part of a wider public consultation.

In line with National Ports Policy Dublin Port Company receives no State funding and my Department will not be providing any monetary contribution towards the cost benefit analysis.