Brian O'Shea (Waterford, Labour)
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Question 117: To ask the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if his attention has been drawn to the concerns regarding safety in relation to operations at Waterford and New Ross Ports (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18235/04]

Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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It is my considered opinion that the introduction of a unified pilotage authority in the Waterford estuary is the best solution to the recurring difficulties relating to the pilotage services provided in the pilotage districts of the Port of Waterford Company and New Ross Port Company.

This solution was recommended in the 1997 report of the review group on pilotage in the Waterford estuary. The benefits of such an authority are not only cost savings but also a safer operation and a better collaboration between the two port companies concerned.

I have requested both companies to work together to identify the steps necessary to put in place a unified pilotage authority for the estuary and to revert to my Department with a joint plan and timeframe for implementation.