Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 5 November 2024
237. Deputy Pádraig Mac Lochlainn asked the Minister for Transport if he has considered reviewing the national ports policy to allow for increased State funding flexibility options, especially through European Union funding available measures; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45235/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs is set out in the Issues Paper on the Review of the National Ports Policy 2013, which was published on 19 October 2023 for public consultation, matters such as climate change adaptation, ORE facilitation and general port capacity requirements bring to the fore the question of how our ports are to finance such necessary developments into the future.
Currently, Irish ports do not receive any State funding. Any change in this policy would need strict criteria and safety mechanisms that protect Exchequer resources. It would also need to comply with the EU’s stringent State Aid regulations.
A revision of all aspects of the National Ports Policy is under active consideration by officials in my Department and a second public consultation on a draft text will take place in 2025.
