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Port Development.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 3 May 2006

Wednesday, 3 May 2006

Ceisteanna (102)

Dan Neville

Ceist:

144 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Transport when he will develop and implement a national ports policy, in particular to deal with capacity problems; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16270/06]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Current Government policy in relation to the port sector is outlined in the Ports Policy Statement, which was published in January 2005 and is available on the Department of Transport's website. This document identifies important policy issues to be addressed in the short to medium term.

One of the key challenges that lies ahead is the provision of adequate in-time port capacity, particularly for unitised trade. The Policy Statement sets out a framework to ensure that capacity needs are identified, planned and progressed in a coordinated manner. A study is currently underway in my Department to examine future port capacity requirements, particularly for unitised trade. The Department has engaged advisors expert in this field, Fisher Associates, to help carry out the study.

Detailed project submissions from the commercial ports with unitised trade expansion plans have been received and are being evaluated by Fisher Associates. Seven submissions were received from ports around the country. It is intended to finalise the report over the coming months.

The purpose of this process is intended to help determine whether the anticipated capacity requirement for our growing economy can be met through the successful advancement and implementation by the port sector of some combination of the various proposals currently under development in the sector.

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