Vol. 441 No. 8
91 Mr. Haughey asked the Minister for the Marine the amount the Government proposes to invest in developing Dún Laoghaire as the main ferryport; if this will benefit a Swedish-based company (details supplied); if this investment will damage B & I Line and Dublin Port, resulting in Irish job losses; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Both the companies referred to by the Deputy have announced ambitious plans for the introduction of new vessels on the central corridor. I welcome these plans in the interests of exporters and the tourism trade. These plans are in line with the Government's objectives for the modernisation of ferry services and it is the intention to encourage the necessary investment in Dublin Port, Dún Laoghaire as well as in Holyhead.
The implementation of these plans also offers the best prospects for ensuring the highest sustainable employment in shipping lines on this corridor. The costs of the Dún Laoghaire project will be of the order of £15 million and the financing arrangements have yet to be finalised.
