Displaying items by tag: Upgrade

8th August 2022

Port of Galway: Upgrade 'Could Become Naval Base’ Says MEP

An upgraded Port of Galway could potentially be used as a navy base, says a West of Ireland MEP.

Midlands-North-West MEP Colm Markey, who sits on the European Parliament's Transport Committee, spoke in light of last month's report from the Defence Forces Commission.

The MEP, who has done extensive work towards obtaining Trans-European Transport Network status (TEN-T) for Galway Port, said the proposal made 'perfect sense'.

"Alongside enormous potentials in offshore wind, hydrogen production, and tourism expansion, Galway port acting as a naval base is another layer of potential for an upgraded port," he said.

"The Commission on the Defence Forces report recognised the need for heightened naval activity.

"There could be a need for a naval port along the west coast, and given the proximity to Renmore Barracks, Galway port makes perfect sense," he added.

But he acknowledged that this would only make sense 'following significant investment in the port, and parallel to the delivery of other key service capacity for the port'.

Connacht Tribune reports more here to include that the CEO of Galway Harbour Company led a recent delegation to Brussels.

Published in Galway Harbour

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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.