Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 27 January 2021
95. Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Transport if Rosslare Port offers an opportunity to connect into the Trans European Transport Network; and if a new strategic plan for the Port needs to be put in place as part of the new Economic Plan under development. [3637/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraRosslare is already included as a Comprehensive Port under European TEN-T Policy. As a seaport on the comprehensive network, Rosslare is eligible to apply under relevant Funding calls but has not done so to date. Rosslare is operated on a commercial basis as a division of Iarnród Éireann with all investments funded from port revenues. As such any decisions with regard to its strategic plan are a matter in the first instance for Rosslare Europort and Iarnród Éireann.
I am aware, however, that Rosslare Europort is targeting growth and new business opportunities and has received the approval of the Iarnród Éireann Board for a strategic plan to grow the port’s business.
Iarnród Éireann and Rosslare Europort’s strategic development plans for the port over the coming years includes investment plans for €35+ million in customer facilities, port infrastructure, freight facilities, port assets, new technology and linking the new entrance of the port with the proposed new port access road.
This Masterplan will allow for expansion in the port’s current key areas of Ro/Ro freight and passenger transport. The Masterplan will also provide the required permanent infrastructure to facilitate the post-Brexit border inspection requirements, while also creating increased capacity. The Department of Transport has been advised by Iarnród Éireann that planning approval has been granted by Wexford County Council for the development, and that clearance work commenced in December 2020. It is expected that this work will be completed over the course of four phases totaling between three and five years and that the port will be able to continue to operate normally while this is carried out.
Iarnród Éireann has also commenced a digitalisation project for the port, which will see investment in all aspects of IT technology with the aim of transforming the Europort into a ‘smart port’. This will include vehicle-recognition systems, trailer-tracking systems, compound management and check-in and check-out systems.
