Ms Niamh McCarthy:

They have. I am aware that they have because I am associated with Cruise Ireland. I know the Department has written to those concerned saying it will support them. Ultimately, we and the ports themselves are very aware of the fact that Dublin cannot be replaced. Tourists want to visit Dublin. Ultimately, that is the issue. With regard to turn business, Dublin has the international airport. Dublin was chosen because of the proximity of its airport to the port, pre-clearance at Dublin Airport and the significant airlift between North America and Dublin. While the work of the ports in Belfast and Cork is amazing, both are undergoing development, which is a little ironic considering they were not aware of the Dublin's stance. The authorities are investing money in their ports but they may be or will be losing. If we believed they would take all the business, it would be great but, ultimately, the cruise guests want to see Dublin. It was said to me in March that if one cruise line can get one of the two days and another cannot, guests will pick the ship going to Dublin. As a result, a cruise line is losing out on this valuable revenue. Dublin is the top seller. All the cruise lines will state that.