Liam Twomey (Wexford, Fine Gael)
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To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his plans regarding the future of Rosslare Europort, County Wexford, and its future role within or otherwise with Iarnród Éireann; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44944/12]

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 well as a tourist gateway to the south-east and beyond.

As you are aware, I am currently finalising a review of national ports policy. In that context, my Department has just launched a tendering process in regard to a strategic review of the current and future role of Rosslare within the context of national ports policy.

I look forward to the completion of this important work which will provide recommendations as regards the optimal operational arrangements for the port.