Mr. John Mullins:

I have not been a member of Fine Gael for six years because I handed in my card when I learned I was about to become chief executive of An Bord Gáis. I hope members of political parties who have dealt with me during my tenure in An Bord Gáis will say I dealt with people in a very fair manner. I do not have anything to hide in that regard and I wish to engage equally with all political parties and community interests.

The Deputy raises a valid point about rail freight in which, as he is aware, we have not had any incremental investment. On the contrary, we have divestment from the sector for many years. In a sense, the planning framework within which the previous planning application was submitted was based on different expectations regarding the importance of rail freight as a means of avoiding road transport. As members are aware, a very good motorway network has been developed in recent years and the majority of our tonnages are being transported by road rather than rail. That is not to say it is a good or bad thing that we are in that position. From a shipping point of view, the turning space at Tivoli Docks is not sufficient for the size of the ships that are needed. While it was appropriate in the 1960s, 1970s and 1980s, it is not appropriate for this century and we will have to look at better turning spaces.

Adjustments have been proposed in the planning framework nationally and I hope An Bord Pleanála will be minded of these directions which have been issued by the Oireachtas and Government.