Liam Twomey (Wexford, Fine Gael)
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To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his views on the future of Rosslare Europort, the N11 and N25 upgrades; and the way these developments wil help promote growth and jobs in the south east; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44671/12]

Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael)
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Rosslare Europort is an important part of our commercial port network and the fourth largest port in the State in terms of total tonnage handled. In addition to its importance as a commercial freight port, it also serves as the State’s second biggest passenger port after Dublin. Clearly therefore the port has functions of a national significance in terms of trade facilitation, as a tourist gateway to the south-east and beyond and in the promotion of growth and employment.

As you are aware, I am currently finalising a review of national ports policy. In that context, my Department will in the coming days be commencing a strategic review of the current and future role of Rosslare within the context of national ports policy. This review will involve external consultants and will consider the port’s current commercial and operational efficiency and advise as to whether the port is maximising its potential. Furthermore, it will seek to identify and analyse all likely options with regard to the future ownership and operation of the port and having regard to all relevant factors and make recommendations as to the optimal ownership and operational structure for the port.

As regards the N11 and N25 upgrades, as Minister for Transport, Tourism & Sport I have responsibility for overall policy and funding in relation to the national roads programme.  The planning, design and implementation of individual road projects is a matter for the National Roads Authority (NRA) under the Roads Acts 1993 to 2007 in conjunction with the local authorities concerned.  Within its capital budget, the assessment and prioritisation of individual projects is also a matter in the first instance for the NRA in accordance with Section 19 of the Roads Act.

Noting the above position, I have referred the Deputy’s question to the NRA for direct reply.  Please advise my private office if you don’t receive a reply within 10 working days.