Port Development

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 23 June 2010

Wednesday, 23 June 2010

Ceisteanna (27)

Joe Costello

Ceist:

45 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Minister for Transport his views on the impact of the recent refusal by An Bord Pleanála to the proposal by Dublin Port for a 21 hectare infill plan for the port and bay; when he will publish his review on the future of Dublin Port and his further views on the fact that a long-term sustainable master plan is now essential to ensure a dynamic Dublin Port Company as well as preserving the precious resource of Dublin Bay; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26848/10]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Transport (Deputy Noel Dempsey)

The National Development Plan 2007-13 provided for a study of the future role of Dublin Port. The findings of this study were published in August 2009. It highlighted the strategic importance of Dublin Port to our national economy, with over 40% of national tonnage passing through the port. The study provides the most recent analysis of future traffic and capacity projections at our commercial seaports. It concluded that significant additional port capacity would be required by 2025-2030. An Bord Pleanála in its recent decision regarding Dublin Port, noted that the expansion of the port would not be contrary to a number of Government policies and studies, including the study referred to earlier, but refused permission on grounds related to the environmental impact of the proposal.