Positive reaction to Port Masterplan

THE Dublin Port Masterplan 2012-2040, which was
unveiled last week, has received a positive reaction on the Northside.

The plan was widely praised for its long-term vision
for Dublin Port and for the extensive consultation process the company had held
with community organisations.

Local Government TDs insisted that further expansion
of the port would be achieved through the utilisation of existing land and that
the controversial plan to infill part of the bay had been shelved.

Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation Richard
Bruton said he welcomed Dublin Port’s decision to withdraw their application to
infill 52 acres of Dublin Bay.

“The Masterplan makes clear that increasing the level
of existing roll on, roll off (ro-ro) facilities over the next 30 years will be
solely through the better utilisation of existing lands,

? stated Minister
Bruton.

“This represents a significant victory for the people
of Clontarf, the Clontarf Residents’ Association and Dublin Bay Watch, who have
successfully resisted the infill proposal for many years.

?

Dublin North Central TD Aodhán � Ríordáin (Lab) said
it was clear from the Masterplan that Dublin Port Company plans to work within
their existing resources and any proposals to infill 52 acres have been shelved
indefinitely.

“This is in line with previous statements from the
Port Company which shows that common sense has prevailed and the justifiable
campaign from residents’ groups and politicians over many years has proven
successful,

? he told Northside People.

“This does
not mean we can take our eye off the ball but it’s clear the Labour Party’s
view on this matter has been consistent.

“In fact, the very first meeting I held after the 2011
General Election was in relation to Dublin Bay where myself, Bronwen Maher and
Cllr Jane Horgan-Jones (Lab) reiterated our position on the 52 acres.”

North Inner City ward councillor Nial Ring (Ind) also
welcomed the Masterplan.

“Dublin Port Company are to be commended for the
way in which they involved the local communities at all stages of the process,
through roadshows, public meetings and displays,” said Cllr Ring.

“As a vital part of our economic infrastructure,
it is great to see a semi-state company planning for expansion and taking the
needs of the neighbouring communities into consideration.

?

Cllr Ring especially welcomed the continuation of
Dublin Port Company’s scholarship programme, drug support programme and support
for local sporting and community groups.

Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Leo
Varadkar, who launched the Masterplan, said: “This is a comprehensive plan
for the long-term development of Dublin Port on its current site.

“As Ireland’s most important port, Dublin Port is a
vital part of our national infrastructure.

“It has a significant role to play in growing exports,
growing jobs, and also in growing tourism, with 87 cruise ships calling last
year.

?

Minister Varadkar added:

“This Masterplan follows a
detailed consultation process and will ensure that Dublin Port continues to
make a real contribution to the local economy, and to our export-led
recovery.”