Andrew Doyle (Wicklow, Fine Gael)

Like most speakers in the House, I welcome the general thrust of this Bill. It seeks to allow port companies to invest, develop and expand to their maximum potential in a range of ways which allow them go outside their own areas. The harbour limits enhance their ability to borrow and develop. However, there are a few fundamental amendments tacked onto the Bill which are certainly a cause of concern, including the amendment that seeks to reduce the number of members from 12 to eight. While I would agree with that in principle, it would be better if there was an odd number for the purposes of achieving vote results. By allowing the Minister appoint the members from the local authority, it bypasses the role of the authority. Any local authority that is properly elected should be in a position to nominate its own members. It would be preferable if there were two members from each party. That is a personal opinion, but I believe it is important.

I am not sure about the role of section 20, which amends the Irish Maritime Development Office of the Marine Institute, and which substitutes the "Minister for Transport" with "the Minister". Does that mean that some other Minister at some stage may be responsible? While it is commendable that the Minister for Transport is the initiator of this Bill, we still should have a full Cabinet position for a Minister for the Marine.

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