New Chief Executive for Foyleport is Appointed

17th February 2026

Jehan Ashmore

A new chief executive has been appointed to Foyle Port; its location also serves as a key Atlantic gateway for the city and the northwest region. Credit: Foyleport-Linkedin

A new chief executive for Londonderry Port and Harbour Commissioners (LPHC), which trades as Foyleport, has been named Ian Luney in that role.

Mr. Luney will take up the post next month on 1 March. He will replace Brian McGrath, who has been at the port on the east bank of the Foyle for over 20 years.

The forthcoming incumbent is currently serving as chief development officer at the port, which is located downriver of Derry at Lissahaly. The deepwater berths can handle vessels up to 62,000 dwt.

He brings extensive senior leadership experience at Foyleport within both the energy and utility sectors, where at LHPC, which is primarily a bulk port and a major importer of animal feed, coal, fertilizer, oil, and plywood.

The Irish News has more on the appointment.

In addition to the port's seasonal cruise trade sector boosting tourism to the city and the northwest region.

Published in Foyle Port, Ports & Shipping

Published in Foyle Port

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About The Author

Jehan Ashmore

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Jehan Ashmore is a marine correspondent, researcher and photographer, specialising in Irish ports, shipping and the ferry sector serving the UK and directly to mainland Europe. Jehan also occasionally writes a column, 'Maritime' Dalkey for the (Dalkey Community Council Newsletter) in addition to contributing to UK marine periodicals.

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About Foyle Port

Foyle Port, located in the North West region of Northern Ireland, is estimated to handle around 2 million tonnes of cargo per year, with a trade value of approximately £1 billion. The port plays a crucial role in facilitating the import of essential agri-products, supporting around 20,000 farms in the region, as well as various local business sectors such as fuel/oil and construction industries. The organisation supports an estimated 1000 direct and indirect jobs.

Originally located in the bustling heart of Derry City, the Commissioners relocated the port to its current deep-water location at Lisahally in 1993. The terminal boasts an impressive 440 metres of quay and can accommodate large vessels of up to 62,000 DWT. Foyle Port is primarily a bulk port and a significant importer of essential commodities such as oil, coal, animal feed, fertiliser, and plywood, all of which are vital for the North West rural region.

Since 2003, the organisation has experienced significant growth, doubling both turnover and profit and attracting approximately £100 million of inward investment to the region. This investment has supported projects, including a fertiliser plant, an oil tank farm, and a biomass power station.

Established by Act of Parliament in 1854, the Londonderry Port & Harbour Commissioners is an independent statutory authority with a duty to develop, maintain and operate to the highest standards of efficiency, financial prudence, environmental awareness, safety, and security. The Port is independent of the Government and is self-financing. All financial surpluses are reinvested in the business for the benefit of future generations of stakeholders.