Ports Policy

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 13 July 2023

Thursday, 13 July 2023

Questions (261)

Fergus O'Dowd

Question:

261. Deputy Fergus O'Dowd asked the Minister for Transport if he will seek an update from the MSO on whether access has been granted to board a ship and carry out the necessary examinations, if he will undertake to write to the Drogheda port authority urging action on this matter, considering the anger of the people of Drogheda at the lack of progress to date since it first sank; and if he will seek a finite expected date of removal of the ship from the River Boyne. [35249/23]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Transport

It is understood that the ship in question is the "M/V Hebble Sand" located in the Port of Drogheda. On this basis the Marine Survey Office (MSO) is proceeding in accordance with its established procedures and is waiting for the owner to progress their application. The Port of Drogheda is under the auspices of Louth County Council and ultimately the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage and it is therefore advised that any queries regarding the Port be directed to the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage or to Louth County Council.