Cork Port welcomes new service linking Cork directly to the 'heart of Europe'

A new weekly freight service which begins operating between the Port of Cork and Belgium this week will help keep supply chains moving during the current crisis.

The Port of Cork has warmly welcomed the announcement by CLdN Ro-Ro SA of the new service between Cork and Zeebrugge.

“This announcement by CLdN will greatly support our efforts in the Port of Cork to keep supply chains moving during the current Covid-19 pandemic," CEO of Port of Cork, Brendan Keating said. “The Port has been actively looking at ways to bolster its freight activity and is delighted to partner with a company that enjoys such a great reputation in the shipping industry. 

"Introducing this new connectivity to Zeebrugge not only helps Port of Cork to protect supply chains during the current crisis, but also adds a direct freight-only link with the heart of Europe.”

The service begins on Friday and is part of a significant expansion by CLdN of its freight services between Belgium and the Republic of Ireland.

The Ro-Ro service will leave Zeebrugge on every Friday to arrive in Cork on Sunday. 

She will return on Tuesday, arriving in Zeebrugge again every Thursday.

Port of Cork Chairman, John Mullins, said: “This is a very exciting development for both the Port of Cork and CLdN. 

"In these unprecedented times this direct freight link with Europe from Ireland’s primary southern gateway will reinforce the Port’s commitment to supporting businesses in the region and preparing for any eventuality Brexit may still bring.” 

The Port of Cork has implemented a contingency plan to ensure freight operations continue as normal during the COVID-19 pandemic, and is a key facilitator of trade in the Munster region.

Vital deliveries will continue to several sectors in the weeks ahead.