I propose to take Questions Nos. 853 and 864 together.
An application from Dublin Port Company for approval under the Foreshore Acts for the proposed reclamation of an area of some 21 hectares of foreshore was made to the Department in March 2002. Since then, Departmental officials have held periodic discussions with Dublin Port Company's management regarding issues arising from the application. This is a regular occurrence in most major foreshore applications.
The application is being considered in accordance with the appropriate procedures. These include a process of public consultation in which it will be open to interested persons to make submissions on the proposal.
The proposed development will also require planning permission before any determination can be made on the foreshore application. Issues associated with ownership of the foreshore as well as environmental matters will form an important part of the Department's consideration to the proposal.