Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Wednesday, 21 Jun 1995

Vol. 454 No. 7

Written Answers. - Cargobridge Project.

Michael McDowell

Ceist:

36 Mr. M. McDowell asked the Minister for Transport, Energy and Communications if his attention has been drawn to correspondence in relation to the Cargobridge project near Dublin Airport which suggests that Aer-Rianta's position in the matter is at variance with departmental policy; the steps, if any, he will take to have his nominees on the board of Aer Rianta ensure that the objections made by Aer Rianta are withdrawn; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11387/95]

Minister for Transport, Energy and Communications (Mr. Lowry)

I do not accept that Aer Rianta's position in relation to the Cargobridge project is at variance with departmental policy. As my agent and as an acknowledged expert in the field of airport management, it is incumbent upon the company to protect the State's interests at all times.

I would like to put the record straight. Aer Rianta, who manage the three State airports on my behalf, did not object to the application for planning permission by Cargobridge but to specific conditions imposed by the planning authority in their approval which would have serious implications for the development of the airport in the future.

The objection was based on technical grounds, the resolution of which can only be determined by An Bord Pleanála. The Cargobridge planning advisers argue a particular point of view which is diametrically opposed to the opinion of the Aer Rianta advisers. The Department has no expertise to enable it to assess these conflicting viewpoints. In these circumtances, my view is that An Bord Pleanála — which has the necessary technical experts — should be allowed to arbitrate on this issue and I am satisfied that the objection should stand.