Paul McGrath (Westmeath, Fine Gael)
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Question 90: To ask the Minister for Transport the proposals contained in the new National Development Plan in relation to the development of the sea port sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6621/07]

Pat Gallagher (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 90 and 187 together.

To date c. €14.5 million of grant aid has been paid to approved projects under the Seaports Measure of the previous NDP 2000-2006, following a competitive call for proposals. Further funding is still available in 2007 for eligible expenditure related to the approved projects.

The Government's Ports Policy Statement published in January 2005 makes clear that the State-owned commercial port companies should in future fund their operations and infrastructural requirements without recourse to the Exchequer.

In line with this policy, Exchequer funding of port infrastructure is not envisaged under the new NDP 2007-2013. In relation to non-Exchequer expenditure under the NDP 2007-2013 it has been estimated that projects at the main commercial ports will cost between €300 million and €600 million.

The precise projects, their timing, and expenditure will be decided by the port companies and their boards, subject to the required capital appraisal and statutory ministerial approvals.

In addition, investment will take place at certain regional harbours. Current policy is that these harbour authorities would best achieve their potential through transfer to local authority or port company control. As part of the transfer arrangements, a programme of remedial works will continue to be funded as appropriate under the NDP.