Displaying items by tag: Brexit AgriChecks

10th February 2021

Brexit Agricultural Staff Checks Resume at Northern Ireland Ports

Decision to resume physical inspections of animal-based products in Belfast and Larne follows a threat assessment provided by the PSNI

Northern Ireland's Department of Agriculture staff which were withdrawn from Brexit checks at two ports because of claims of threats last week return to work today.

According to RTE News, the decision to resume physical inspections of animal-based products in Belfast and Larne follows a threat assessment provided by police.

The checks were suspended on 1 February after threatening graffiti appeared in a number of loyalist areas warning that port staff could be "targets".

It was claimed that staff were being threatened by unspecified opponents of the Northern Ireland Protocol (see: related Article 16) which has resulted in inspections on some products arriving from Great Britain.

Many unionists and loyalists view this Irish Sea border as a threat to Northern Ireland’s constitutional position within the UK.

More here on this story.

Published in Ports & Shipping

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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.