Vol. 400 No. 2
72 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for the Marine , in respect of the Government-sponsored EUROPEN campaign, the action he has taken within his Department to ensure Ireland's preparedness for 1992; if, as recommended, he has appointed a person in his Department with specific responsibility for 1992; if that person has developed and promoted a programme of work/activities in this area; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
The advent of the Internal Market in 1992 and the opening of the Channel Tunnel in 1993 will result in Ireland being the only island European Community member state. Ireland's peripheral location at the edge of Europe puts us at a natural disadvantage vis-à-vis our EC partners. It is, therefore imperative that we have appropriate port capacity, and quality port infrastructure, strategically located in relation to the main internal arteries.
An access transport study commissioned to examine Ireland's needs in relation to sea and air freight in the context of peripherality is nearing completion.The study, which is 75 per cent funded by the European Commission, is being carried out by SKC. I am hopeful that it will endorse the need for European aid in the development of our shipping industry.
Programmes have been put in place for substantial improvements in the infrastructure of commercial and fishery harbours as a means for preparing for 1992.
I have appointed a person in my Department with specific responsibility for 1992 and responsibility for continuing activity is now under his supervision.
