Written Answers. - Dublin Port.
Ivor Callely
Ceist:
37
Mr. Callely
asked the
Minister for the Marine
if he will give details of the development proposals that have been submitted to him by the Dublin Port and Docks Board; the current position regarding each proposal; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
[11045/96]
Ivor Callely
Ceist:
148
Mr. Callely
asked the
Minister for the Marine
if he will assist and encourage the development of Dublin Port to ensure that it remains Ireland's premier port; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
[11122/96]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 37 and 148 together. Dublin Port and Docks Board has submitted the following proposals for development in the port:
1. South Bank Lo/Lo Terminal
This development of a Lift On/Lift Off facility was approved for funding from the Cohesion Fund on 9 April 1996. This project can now be progressed forward.
2. North Quay Extension
This development of a Roll On/Roll Off facility at the North Quay Extension was approved for funding from the Cohesion Fund on 13 April 1994. This project is substantially complete.
3. Dublin Freight Terminal
This development of a Terminal 1 Lift On/Lift Off facility was approved for funding from the Cohesion Fund on 13 July 1995. This project is proceeding according to plan.
4. Vehicle Traffic System
Upgrading the Vehicle Traffic System. This project is at present under consideration by the Commission for funding from the Cohesion Fund.
5. Storage Facilities
Construction of handling and bulk storage facilities. This project was approved for funding under the Operational Programme for Transport on 27 March 1996. Tenders for the project are currently being evaluated.
6. Alexandra Quay
Provision of a bulk crane and hopper. This project will be put forward for funding from the Operational Programme for Transport. The project is due to commence in 1997 subject to satisfying programme criteria and availability of funding.
7. Dublin Ferry Port
Upgrading of facilities for new superferry. This project was approved for funding under the Ireland/Wales Maritime INTERREG Programme on 24 January 1996. The project is substantially under way with the new linkspan already in operation.
8. Four other projects viz;
Breakwater Refurbishment
Fire Protection
Environmental Landscaping
Capital Dredging
These projects will be put forward for funding under the Ireland/ Wales Maritime INTERREG Programme.
The projects are due to commence in 1997-98.
The Deputy can see from the above development programme, at an estimated cost of £33.415 million — EU grant aid of £17.946 million — that I am providing every assistance and encouragement to Dublin Port and Docks Board into efforts to develop the port.
The substantial increases in shipping services, frequencies and tonnage throughput since 1993 in the port prove that this support is producing the desired results.
