Noel Harrington (Cork South West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank Ms McCaffrey for the very interesting presentation and congratulate her on the recommendation for another term as chairperson. It is clear from her presentation that it is based on merit. I wish her well and good luck in her next term.

There is a great deal happening in Dublin Port and it is clear from the figures in the presentation and in the 2013 annual report that it is in a very healthy position. What would Ms McCaffrey see as the port's competitors? The report shows that the port has quite a healthy margin. Sometimes a healthy margin can indicate the competitive nature of a port. She would probably mention the ports in Cork, Galway and Foynes in this country, but does the board of the company give consideration to international competitors? Also, how does she deal with or foster intra-port competition, in terms of keeping the charges for what is a very expensive business for the logistical operators as low as possible?

Historically, industrial relations and relationships between the port company and the stakeholders have been a huge issue. How would she describe the industrial relations environment within Dublin Port? The committee is always conscious of that. Any trouble or issues that might arise in Dublin Port could have a very serious effect on the Irish economy in terms of inhibiting the movement of goods.