Jimmy Deenihan (Kerry North, Fine Gael)
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Question 479: To ask the Minister for Transport the position regarding the proposed merger of Tralee and Fenit Harbour Commissioners with Shannon Foynes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12764/07]

Pat Gallagher (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)
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The Ports Policy Statement, published in January 2005, states that the continued operation of the regional harbours under the outdated provisions of the Harbours Act 1946 is unsustainable on the grounds of good governance. The Policy Statement reiterated the view that most of the these harbours would best achieve their potential through their transfer to local authority ownership or, where this was not possible, the option of sale of the harbours would be considered. In harbours where significant commercial traffic exists, consideration would be given to bringing them under the control of a port company.

With regard to Tralee and Fenit Harbour, my Department believes that the best way forward may be some form of amalgamation with Shannon Foynes Port Company. In that regard, Shannon Foynes Port Company has been asked by my Department to carry out a due diligence process in cooperation with Tralee and Fenit Harbour Commissioners in order to progress the matter. The precise details of an amalgamation would have to be worked out in conjunction with the various parties in due course and would not be finalised without first consulting further with local interests.