Port of Cork deal with Belfast Harbour a ‘vital boost’, says Taoiseach

The Port of Cork company and Belfast Harbour have signed an agreement which will see them co-operate on offshore wind energy and cruise tourism expansion.

The 10-year agreement creates a formal framework for the two largest cruise ports on the island of Ireland to collaborate on large-scale infrastructure projects, green innovation, and digital transformation.

As part of the agreement, the ports aim to strengthen their roles as key enablers of the regional economy, here and in the North.

The ports will collaborate to identify and secure joint funding for catalytic capital projects, including clean shore power solutions and digital hub developments to enhance port competitiveness.

Also, the ports will align existing initiatives focused on supporting employment and training for younger adults in lesser-served areas, ensuring the maritime economy delivers broad social value.

Welcomed

The partnership has been welcomed by the ministers responsible for ports in both jurisdictions and also by Taoiseach Michéal Martin, who told The Echo: “There is a memorandum of understanding being signed in the context of the visit of [British prime minister] Keir Starmer to Cork for the annual summit between the UK and Irish governments, which I’m very happy to bring to Cork.

“The co-operation the Port of Belfast and the Port of Cork, particularly in the context of offshore wind capacity and capability, fits neatly into also the broader UK/Ireland relationship.”

He also said he was hopeful that the shared island initiative would have a role in supporting the Belfast/Cork link.

Global challenges

Liz Kimmins, infrastructure minister in the North, said the partnership between Belfast and Cork was a significant step forward in efforts to build a more resilient and sustainable economy: “By working together, our ports can better navigate global challenges and seize the immense opportunities presented by the green energy transition.

“I’m pleased that this collaboration will not only drive trade but will deliver positive impact for our people and wider society across the island, by providing a vital boost to local communities through skills development and job creation.”

Michael Walsh, chairperson of the Port of Cork company, said the collaboration is about more than just infrastructure.

“It’s about innovation and shared resilience, and ensuring this island is in the best position to support and facilitate growing sectors like cruise and offshore renewable energy,” he said.

“It is about creating a more connected and prosperous island for all.”