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Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 7 Oct 2003

Vol. 571 No. 4

Written Answers. - Port Development.

Eamon Gilmore

Ceist:

141 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the progress made in regard to the public consultation process on the high level review of ports and the port estates task force; when he expects to make decisions on the recommendations contained in the reports; if he accepts the finding of the high level review that privatisation of port assets is not an immediate option; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22045/03]

In publishing the report of the high level review and the report on port estates in May this year, I initiated a full public consultation process on their findings and recommendations. I intend that the results of the public consultation process will feed into and inform future policy deliberations in relation to the ports sector.

I wish to thank all those who made submissions in response to my initiative. There is clearly much food for thought contained in the submissions received to date and my Department is currently reviewing the results of the consultation process with a view to preparing framework policy options for my consideration. At this stage, I can confirm that significant common issues which received attention in the submissions include: competition within and between the ports; the issue of regulation; implementation of the proposed EU directive on market access to port services; and possible mergers of port companies.
It is my intention to publish a comprehensive policy statement over the coming months, drawing on the high level review and the subsequent consultation process. The early response by port companies to my invitation to suggest mergers, my Department's consultations with the Competition Authority and the Department of Transport, along with other issues and developments at EU level, will all be taken into account in drawing up this comprehensive policy statement.
In relation to the issue of privatisation of port companies, I can confirm that this option is not being pursued at present. However, it remains as a possibility for the future in the event that such a development would best serve the public interest.
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