As the Deputy will be aware, in the Programme for a Partnership Government, we have indicated that port investment will be concentrated in key commercial freight and passenger ports including the Shannon Estuary. A project team is currently examining all proposals for the development of the Shannon Estuary as a major European economic trading bridgehead.
In addition, the Department of the Marine is evaluating all port development submissions received from harbour authorities and private interests — including those submitted relating to the Shannon Estuary — in order to develop an integrated and strategic programme of investment in harbour facilities. This programme will be assisted by the EC Cohesion and Structural Funds and will enable our key commercial ports to cater for increasing demand and new designs of ships.