As previously reported on Afloat.ie, the Department of Transport has commenced a review of its National Ports Policy.
As an island nation on the periphery of Europe, the maritime transport sector plays a crucial role in the functioning of Ireland’s economy. Some 90% of all goods traded by Ireland pass through the commercial port network, underscoring the importance of a resilient and efficient maritime transport industry for the country’s economic success.
But the importance of Ireland’s ports is not just economic. Located as many ports are in the heart of urban centres and areas of environmental significance, how Ireland’s ports interact with both the communities that provide their social licence to operate and the marine environment is something in which we all have a vested interest.
This revised policy aims to provide the vision for how Ireland’s ports will meet these challenges.
The review consists of a two-part consultation process. The first part involves the publication of an issues paper and consultation with all interested stakeholders who are invited to make a submission.
Upon completion of the first stage, it will be followed by a shorter public consultation on the draft policy document. The objective is to present a new draft policy to the Government in 2025 following a thorough and inclusive consultation.
Submissions are now invited for the first part of the process on the ports policy issues paper. Details on this paper and the consultation process can be found on Gov.ie and the final date for receipt of submissions is 6pm on 15 January 2024.
