Ivor Callely
Ceist:72 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for the Marine his development plan for upgrading the facilities connected with the central sea corridor in conjunction with Dublin Port; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Post Development Programme.
The development strategy which underpins the proposed Central Sea Corridor port development programme is focused on improving competitiveness and expanding the capacity of the internationally traded sectors of the Irish economy. Port development proposals at a total estimated cost of £68 million have been submitted by Dublin Port and Docks Board for consideration for EC aid.
The provision of a freight ro-ro facility at the North Quay extension, Dublin Port, at a total estimated cost of £5.5 million, has been approved by the EU for Cohesion Fund aid at the rate of 65 per cent of project cost. A lo-lo terminal enhancement project at a total estimated cost of £9 million has been submitted to the EU for consideration for Cohesion Fund aid. The EU's decision on this is expected during the second quarter of 1994.
The other proposals submitted by the board are under consideration in the context of the utilisation of the next round of Structural Funds. As the Deputy will be aware of comprehensive port development programme, involving a substantial expenditure programme over the years 1994 to 1999, as included in the National Development Plan. Dublin Port projects which are shown to be justified will be strongly supported by the Department for Structural Fund aid.
This investment is in addition to an EU-assisted investment of £22 million in the provision of bulk and unitised facilities at Dublin Port under the Operational Programme on Peripherality, 1989-1993 which programme is now virtually complete.
In relation to ferry services a comprehensive strategy for the development of ferry services on the central sea corridor was recently approved. This strategy involves the parallel and complementary development of ferry terminals both at Dublin Port and Dún Laoghaire and also the development of Holyhead to facilitate the earliest possible introduction of both B & I's and Stena Sealink's new vessels. The upgrading of ferry terminal facilities in Dublin Port to facilitate B & I's new ferry is under consideration for EU aid.