asked the Minister for the Marine, having regard to the fact that Cork Harbour Commissioners have invested £10 million in harbour improvements, that Cork is the nearest port to Europe and bearing in mind the advent of the Single European Market, if he will designate the port of Cork as a Europort; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Cork Port Designation.
49.
I propose to take Questions Nos. 34 and 49 together. There is no official designation of "Europort" that I am aware of and consequently the question of designating Ringaskiddy as a Europort does not arise. In the National Development Plan 1989-1995 special emphasis was given to Cork and a number of other large ports with the objective of preparing them for the challenges of the Single Market through upgrading of their facilities. Deputies will of course be aware that Ringaskiddy already enjoys the advantages of freeport status.