An investment programme of almost £30 million for Dublin Port between now and 1999 was announced by me today. EU grant aid of some £15 million from the Cohesion and Structural Funds is expected toward this programme of investment.
The development of port and shipping services on the Central Corridor is of strategic importance to the country. The development strategy for Dublin Port essentially entails the provision of adequate competing services for ro-ro and lo-lo traffic. In line with this strategy the programme of investment outlined today involves
— upgrading of ferry terminal for Dublin Ferry Port (Irish Continental Group (ICG));
— extension of ro-ro berth for Pandoro;
— extension of Marine Terminals Ltd. and Dublin Freight Terminal's (ICG) lo-lo berths;
— improvement of bulk handling and storage facilities;
— upgrading the VTS system and improving ship movements within the port area;
— breakwater refurbishment, environmental landscaping, and fire protection.
The programme is designed to develop Dublin Port facilities for all modes of transport to the highest standards.
The projects for Dublin Port will receive assistance from the Transport Operational Programme, the Cohesion Fund and the Maritime INTERREG Programme. I have today given approval to the projects on the following list which are being aided under the Transport Operational Programme. The EU Commission are evaluating the projects under the Cohesion Fund and decisions are expected shortly. The Maritime INTERREG Programme is being finalised by the EU Commission at present. All projects must meet the criteria for EU aid set down in the relevant EU funding programme.
The list of the projects announced today is as follows.