Vol. 398 No. 8
8 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for the Marine if he has received a report or recommendations from the Dún Laoghaire Interim Harbour Board and when he expects to be in a position to make decisions regarding developments at Dún Laoghaire Harbour.
50 Mr. S. Barrett asked the Minister for the Marine when he will publish a development plan for Dún Laoghaire Harbour, County Dublin; and if such a plan will be approved by the interim harbour board prior to its implementation.
I intend answering Priority Question No. 8 and Question No. 50 together.
The primary function of the interim Dún Laoghaire Harbour Board is to assist in all aspects of harbour management and development. The board will not be working towards a single report but they will advise me from time to time as is necessary.
I understand that the board are currently considering various aspects of a development plan for Dún Laoghaire Harbour. When the board have finalised their views, development proposals will be put on public display. I am anxious that developments take place as quickly as possible after I have received their advice.
I welcome the Minister's statement that the development proposals will be put on public display. Will he give us an assurance that he will not make any decision in relation to development at Dún Laoghaire Harbour prior to receiving the advice of the interim harbour board and to the proposals being put on public display? Is the Minister aware of renewed concern for the future of the car ferry terminal at Dún Laoghaire, particularly in the light of a recent report from the sectoral development committee which casts serious doubt on whether the Dún Laoghaire car ferry terminal is likely to continue into the future? Will he state if it is his intention to ensure that the car ferry terminal is retained and that passenger facilities at Dún Laoghaire are improved to facilitate its retention?
I cannot tell the Deputy how deeply hurt I am that he does not trust me in regard to making decisions on the development of Dún Laoghaire.
I just want to be sure.
No decisions will be made without the matter being fully investigated. There is another question tabled in relation to the car ferry terminal at Dún Laoghaire.
If I am to dispose of the remaining priority question it must be taken now.
