I propose to take Questions Nos. 31, 47 and 64 together.
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. The strategic objective is to enable Irish shipping companies to meet international competition under comparable cost conditions but without compromising on safety. The intention is to ensure the maintenance and creation of employment in the sector and to facilitate productive investment to modernise and expand the fleet.
The review is being conducted in full consultation with the industry. However, to further inform this process the Department plans to commission an economic evaluation of the sector shortly which will also address the case for additional support measures conducive to an efficient and competitive shipping industry. In that context the various incentives currently available to shipping sectors in certain other EU member states are being examined. These can lead to a distortion of competition between EU carriers themselves, but it is the case that considerable differentials in operating and manning costs place European shipowners generally at a distinct competitive disadvantage vis-à-vis flags of convenience. The pressures on European, including Irish, shipowners to move such registries which offer liberal tax and operating regimes are considerable and growing.
There is recognition at EU level of the need for positive measures to assist European shipowners in a harmonised way in order to meet the competition challenge and maintain employment while ensuring the highest safety standards. Commission proposals on this issue are being actively discussed with a view to identifying and, more importantly, agreeing possible ways forward. Our policy review is being undertaken with full regard for EU shipping policy trends and objectievs.
I am determined to ensure the continued viability and growth of the Irish shipping industry to service the needs of Irish importers and exporters and as an employer and revenue earner in its own right.