asked the Minister for Transport and Power if he is in a position to make a statement as to the definite intentions of the B and I line regarding a direct sea link between the port of Cork and cross-channel ports.

As the Deputy is no doubt aware the company have deferred further the proposed withdrawal of the direct Cork/Liverpool unit load service until May, 1969 when a new passenger car ferry and roll-on/roll-off freight service on the Cork/ Swansea route is due to commence operations.

I will not be in a position to make a further statement in the matter until I have received and examined the submissions I have invited from the interests concerned.