No decision yet on sites for harbour facilities

I REFER to the article headlined ‘No super port for IFI site’ (County supplement, February 16) and I wish to point out that the Port of Cork Company at this stage has not made a decision regarding the location for future port facilities in Cork harbour.

Some readers may interpret that a decision has been made and that the current phase of public consultation has concluded.

I wish categorically to state that public consultation is still ongoing and the Port of Cork Co hopes to have a decision made by the end of April, and until then comments and concerns of stakeholders are invited.

The Port of Cork is currently reviewing its strategic development plan in order to service the business and trading needs of the region, to secure employment and help create and sustain jobs, as well as facilitating the needs of the port.

A key element of the review is a comprehensive re-evaluation of 12 sites in Cork harbour with a view to identifying the most appropriate locations for new facilities.

While there are five emerging sites at this stage with significant potential, I reiterate that all 12 sites are open for comment.

In terms of the development of the port, overall local issues are always important and will be reviewed as part of the company’s decision-making.

Anyone interested in receiving further information on the Port of Cork’s site selection process should visit www.portofcork.ie or phone Sara Dymond at 021-4625375.

Brendan Keating

Chief Executive

Port of Cork Company

Custom House Street

Cork