Mary Butler (Waterford, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister for his comprehensive answer. He correctly noted that Rosslare Port is unique, and outlined its history and how it was established. It is a joint venture between Iarnród Éireann, which operates Rosslare Port, and Stena Line, which operates Fishguard Port in Wales. These companies are responsible for the management of their respective ports, with the profits and liabilities of each port remaining with the operating company. However, the overall company structure stems from the original UK legislation. I welcome the fact that the Minister will make contact with his UK counterpart after the British general election and that he met the previous UK minister on three occasions.

This area is extremely problematic for a number of reasons. First, the complex ownership structure of Rosslare Europort has very much harmed the port's economic development. While all other ports in Ireland are owned and operated by an independent port authority, or by a local authority in the case of smaller ports, Rosslare Europort's status is much less clear. Second, given the port's strategic importance to the island of Ireland, it would be wrong to leave it in the control of a foreign country, particularly as that country prepares to exit the European Union. I acknowledge that this is a very complex issue, but it is vital that Ireland regains control of this port to ensure it plays a role in preserving our export capacity.

See this speech in context