Noel Dempsey (Meath West, Fianna Fail)

As the Deputy states, it is an important report that puts forward many recommendations and ideas, which we are examining. On the questions it raises, I am aware of all the points the Deputy highlights from the report in regard to port access at Drogheda, the road system in Cork and the Dublin outer orbital route. The Deputy will be aware that the National Roads Authority is examining the outer orbital route and assessing the possibility of advancing it, at least to design stage, as quickly as possible. It is not included in Transport 21.

With regard to port access, this report will be taken in conjunction with the official report on ports policy that was published some years ago. This is a useful addition to that report. We will carefully note its contents and respond in due course.

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