Swedish-owned ferry operator Stena Line has highlighted the importance of resilient transport networks to Ireland's trade, economic growth and connectivity at a high-level Irish-Swedish infrastructure forum in Dublin.
The company sponsored the Resilience Forum, held at Stephen's Green Club on Thursday (22 October), where government and industry representatives examined transport security, supply chain disruption and the protection of critical infrastructure.
The discussions included representatives of Ireland's Departments of Transport, Defence and Enterprise, Trade and Employment, alongside Swedish government and business interests.
Johan Edelman, Stena Line's Trade Director Irish Sea South, said the company recognised the importance of maintaining reliable transport connections in an increasingly uncertain international environment.
"We see first-hand the importance of resilient transport networks in supporting trade, economic growth and connectivity," he said.
"Recent times have highlighted the need for preparedness, flexibility and close cooperation. By knowledge-sharing, partnerships and increased collaboration, we can build stronger and more resilient systems that are equipped for future challenges."
For Ireland, an island economy dependent on maritime connections for international trade, the reliability of ferry and freight services is an important element of supply chain resilience.
The forum also considered energy security, emergency preparedness and the protection of digital and physical infrastructure against potential disruption.
Organised by Business Sweden in partnership with the Embassy of Sweden in Dublin, the event was the latest in a series of bilateral discussions held over the past two years.
Swedish Ambassador to Ireland Inger Buxton said developing effective national resilience required long-term investment and cooperation between government and industry.
The company has also announced a €16 million upgrade programme for its Irish Sea fleet. Stena Line operates an extensive European ferry network carrying passengers and freight, with approximately 40 vessels serving 19 routes across Northern Europe and the Mediterranean.
The Dublin meeting did not announce specific new ferry services or maritime infrastructure projects.
