Noel Ahern (Dublin North West, Fianna Fail)

I reiterate there was always going to be consultation, as has been the case with other harbours which have transferred to local authorities. Any of the commitments given previously would have been confirmed but in line with the idea behind the amendment, I hope to table amendments on Report Stage. I will need to consult the Parliamentary Counsel but it is my intention to table an amendment which will give legislative back-up to a consultation process. I accept the principle of the Senator's suggestion.

I do not believe we should be too prescriptive about these matters after that. There has been ample consultation in the case of the other harbours which have transferred to local authorities and everybody with a view has had ample opportunity to express those views and to come to some agreement. For instance, Sligo has an advisory group in place which is more or less the old harbour commissioners and that role is still being fulfilled in a different way. I will bring forward an amendment which accepts that principle and which formalises or gives legislative weight to a consultation process.