Vol. 515 No. 3
102 Mr. Noonan asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources the terms of reference of the review group examining the future control and management of the Shannon estuary; if the group will consider the views of both Foynes Harbour Commissioners and the Shannon estuary ports and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6148/00]
I have arranged for my Department to forward a copy of the terms of reference for the "Review of Operations and Structures of the Ports in the Shannon Estuary" to the Deputy. The review in being conducted by independent consultants (KPMG) who were contracted by my Department on foot of a tender process.
The terms of reference stipulate that the consultants undertake a comprehensive consultation process involving both Shannon Estuary Ports Company and Foynes Port Company, along with port users, local authorities, commercial State bodies in the region and the social partners. The consultants also invited submissions-comments on the study review from anyone interested through public advertisement. I am assured that the views of all interested parties will be taken into account fully.
The review is focusing on whether changes in operational/management structures would significantly benefit port users and generate increased trade, industrial growth and employment for the region as a whole.
There is enormous potential for the further industrial and commercial development of the Shannon estuary and its hinterland and the review has set out to establish the best possible management and operational structure for the estuary ports industry in order to maximise this potential.
I understand that the consultants are currently finalising their report.
