asked the Minister for the Marine if he will outline his Department's policy on the future development of Dublin Port; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Future of Dublin Port.
16.
The importance of Dublin port to the Irish economy is indicated by the fact that it catered for 48 per cent of the State's total seaport trade in value terms in 1988.
In the context of the internal market, the aim is to maintain Dublin port as the main port for intensive freight services to and from the UK and Europe. Special emphasis was given to Dublin, and a number of other large ports, in the National Development Plan 1989-1993, with the objective of preparing them for the challenges of 1992. To meet this objective, a major investment in the port is planned over the next five years to provide for the fast and efficient transport of goods in and out of the greater Dublin area.
The investment programme at Dublin port will place special emphasis on the provision of improved container handling facilities at the common user south bank container terminal. It will also make provision for more efficient bulk handling at Alexander Quay.
The total expenditure on these improvements at Dublin port over the period to 1993 will be in excess of £18 million and it is hoped that EC aid of 50 per cent will be obtained. The exact amount of aid will not be known until the programme for peripherality has been approved by the EC.