Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent) | Oireachtas source

Rosslare Europort is a strange animal because of its historic ownership and operation and the fact that Iarnród Éireann receives funds from it. There is a good case for examining how the structure might be more beneficial to the port, whether efficiencies could be made and whether opportunities present. When I was in Rosslare, I was struck by how we had a port that could take more advantage of events like Brexit. It was my first visit to the port. I received some particularly enterprising suggestions, which should be examined in a more forensic way than I could do in half an hour at a meeting. There are possibilities that might not have been examined. Perhaps some of the structure, template and model could be altered and improved. I do not want to say much more than that, but the Deputy understands what I mean. I am not in any way suggesting that the port should be reduced in size. Rather, if there are opportunities, it might be good for the region and the people who live in the locality. What the Deputy has said is constructive. He is kicking an open door as far as I am concerned, but my knowledge of the matter is only a week old. This prospect should be considered seriously.

Regarding Coast Guard equipment, I want to be careful in what I say. As the Deputy probably knows, the Department has been asked in the interim report to carry out a full review of search and rescue, SAR, operations. We have already set the terms of reference for that and we are going full speed ahead. I hope for it to come to a conclusion before the summer recess.