As the Deputy is no doubt aware, the High Court appointed a liquidator yesterday to wind up the operations of Dublin Cargo Handing Ltd — Dublin Cargo Handling — in the deep sea sector of Dublin port.
The management of Dublin port is a statutory function of the Dublin Port and Docks Board. Responsibility for industrial relations matters and decisions in relation to the structure of stevedoring arrangements in the deep sea sector are a matter for the board and their now liquidated wholly owned subsidiary, Dublin Cargo Handling. The board considered all the options available to them to improve the competitiveness, profitability and reliability of the stevedoring service for port users before reaching their decision to proceed with liquidation of Dublin Cargo Handling. I was disappointed that my initiative to bring both sides back to the table for discussions under the auspices of the Labour Relations Commission last week, while successful in so far as Dublin Cargo Handling and the workers agreed to participate, regrettably, failed to resolve the matters at issue and avoid the liquidation of Dublin Cargo Handling.
In relation to the continuity of service for shippers, I am advised by Dublin Port and Docks Board that the liquidator will endeavour to have new stevedoring structures in place as soon as practical.
I understand ship operators have in place alternative transport arrangements which are serving their needs and the needs of industry.