Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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Question 300: To ask the Minister for Transport the degree to which he will encourage and develop sea transport with reference to the development of the ports and harbours, roll-on roll-off services and increased frequency and location of ferry services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6806/10]

Noel Dempsey (Meath West, Fianna Fail)
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As Minister for Transport I feel it is important that the market offers a diverse range of viable maritime links in and out of the State. This is vital to facilitate trade and tourism. Ireland has one of the most extensive short sea networks in Europe with multiple operators and various alternative modes of shipping available. Our roll-on roll-off and ferry services between Ireland and the UK are amongst the most frequently served services in Europe. Any new services must be market driven. Over the past decade we have seen a 68% increase in the amount of freight capacity services serving the Ireland to UK and European markets.

Ireland is well served by ferry links to the UK and continental Europe. These links are frequent and competitive. The services can be viewed on an interactive map on the website of the Irish Maritime Development Office (www.imdo.ie). The Irish Government encourages intra and inter port competition for ferry services which has been facilitated by the infrastructural and capacity developments at our ports. Shipping operates in a highly liberalised global market environment, which has enhanced competition on the key Irish routes. The ongoing development of our shipping network has provided the Irish market with more competition, choice and frequency in accessing the global market place.

My Department through its agency the Irish Maritime Development Office (IMDO) continues to support and assist Irish and foreign owners establish new shipping services, providing them with expert market intelligence and analysis.