asked the Minister for Transport and Power what proposals, if any, are before his Department for the development of Drogheda port, County Louth; and if they include the transfer of the wharves jetties, etc., to the right bank of the Boyne at Mornington, Drogheda, near the mouth of the river.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Drogheda Port Development.
34.
I have received from the Drogheda Harbour Commissioners a copy of a long-term plan outlining the views of the commissioners as regards the future development of the port. The plan envisages the construction of a new wharf and other developments at the mouth of the Boyne. No application for a Harbour Works Order involving any specific development work has, however, been submitted to me.
Can the Minister say what is the next step following that, or, if it is a long-term plan, does this mean it is just a notice of intention which may take ten or 12 years?
It is to keep us informed. The commissioners have given us their ideas as to the lines of long-term future developments at the port. At this stage it is not a specific proposal from them. When they have their minds made up on a specific proposal they will then seek authority from me to make a Harbour Works Order. It is in the initial stages at present, but I await a specific proposal from them and we can deal with that on its merits then if and when it is received.
If a specific proposal comes in, does it follow that, having been considered by his Department and approved, a grant or loan will be required and sanction for that must be applied for separately?
Yes.