asked the Minister for Transport and Power if he has received an application for permission to operate a transport car ferry service between a Welsh port and Rosslare; and if it is his intention to grant such permission.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Wales-Rosslare Car Ferry Service
2.
My permission is not required for the operation of a shipping service to or from this country. At my request Córas Iompair Éireann are undertaking substantial works to enable cars to be driven directly on and off the ship at Rosslare next season. CIE are also discussing with British Railways the further development of the Rosslare-Fishguard services by the introduction of modern stern loading ships to meet the growing traffic in tourist cars.
I did not ask the Minister for that answer at all. I asked whether he had received an application for permission to operate a transport car ferry between a Welsh port and Rosslare.
I made it clear that my permission is not required for the operation of the service.
But I asked did the Department receive an application?
They did receive an application in relation to Rosslare Harbour.
There you are.
In view of the major developments between Rosslare and Fishguard anticipated by CIE and British Railways services, the project is not going on. They did not proceed.
Would the Minister consider making a full statement as to why he refused this, a full statement as to why this service was turned down?
I prefer to wait until the negotiations have been concluded between British Railways and CIE. Then it will be very clear to the Deputy why this other project could not materialise.
Would the Minister tell me approximately when he would be prepared to make that statement?
I am not certain when the negotiations will be concluded but I hope it will be at a very early date.
There is a considerable amount of further work to be done at Rosslare. In addition to making a road, further works will be necessary, so I hope it will materialise at a very early date. First of all, it requires examination by my Department and by the Minister for Finance, in so far as CIE require capital funds for the work, and also the consent of the British Transport Authority so far as British Railways are concerned.
Will it be within six months?
I hope earlier than that.