Patrick O'Donovan
Ceist:230. Deputy Patrick O'Donovan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the plans he has for Rosslare Europort; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39617/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraThursday, 16 October 2014
Ceisteanna (230)
Freagraí scríofa
In early 2013, my predecessor Mr. Leo Varadkar T.D. commissioned a Strategic Review of Rosslare and that report was considered by Government in early 2014. The report concluded that the creation of an independent port company for Rosslare would be extremely difficult due to the legal structure of the port given that any such move would require legislation both in the Oireachtas and the British Houses of Parliament. Rather the report recommended that Rosslare Europort should remain in public ownership, in this case within Iarnród Éireann, but that the possibilities for private sector involvement and management of the port should be investigated.
It is intended that Iarnrod Eireann will establish a Stakeholder Council to assist with exploring options for a long term concession of the port. Members of this group are currently being identified and it is hoped to have this Council in place shortly. This will include representation from the Local Authority, regional tourism, transport & general business interests, local fishing interests, local worker representatives, port users and port management.