Noel Dempsey (Meath West, Fianna Fail)

It was clearly set out a number of years ago that Government policy was to make the ports independent, commercial entities. A ports policy was clearly outlined, namely, that they are to operate in a commercial manner. There has been a loosening of various ties, strings and control over recent years to try to allow them to be commercial. As far as I am concerned, policy will continue in that direction. The ports must make these decisions. As a shareholder, along with the Minister for Finance, I will have an interest in how matters proceed. If proposals are made, I will, as a shareholder, consider them. However, I will do so only in that capacity. The ports are independent in terms of how they decide to proceed.

I indicated that we are discussing a comprehensive study of the role of Dublin Port. This will have to be multifaceted and it will be carried out under the auspices of my Department. Obviously, however, other Departments will be involved.

See this speech in context