Vol. 441 No. 8
89 Mr. Haughey asked the Minister for the Marine if he has received representations from the workers of the B & I Line regarding the need for the Government to subsidise shipping companies; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
90 Mr. Haughey asked the Minister for the Marine if his attention has been drawn to the fact that workers in the B & I Line believe that Ireland is the only country in the EU that has no maritime policy resulting in Irish seafarers' jobs being replaced by low cost foreign crews; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
I propose to reply to Questions Nos. 89 and 90 together.
I am aware of the views expressed by various sections of the shipping industry, including employees of B & I, in relation to features of current national shipping policy. I should point out however that Ireland is not alone in having to contend with competition from vessels employing low cost crews; this problem affects all EU member states.
In line with the Programme for Government, I am reviewing ways in which the operating climate for the shipping sector can be enhanced to support the objectives of improved services, standards, modernisation and the ability to compete of the Irish-registered fleet.
