#ShippingReview: Over the last fortnight Jehan Ashmore has reported from the shipping scene where Minister for Transport, Leo Varadkar confirmed a successful Irish Presidency trilogue which dealt with the Maritime Labour Package.
Celtic Link Ferries recorded an increase in both passenger and vehicle traffic for the month of May compared to same period in 2012.
A new ferry route linking Campeltown on the Mull of Kintyre peninsula and Ardrossan on the Firth of Clyde via the Isle of Aran began operations, the first new service for nearly 20 years by CalMac in the region.
Irish based shipping companies (340 vessels) in 2012 experienced a challenging year in operations both with domestic and international, according to the Irish Maritime Development Office (IMDO).
Celebrating this month is the 40th anniversary of Irish Continental Line's Ireland-France route served by Saint Patrick, the service's successor is operated by Irish Ferries.
Cork based Ardmore Shipping's newly launched 49,999dwt tanker Ardmore Seaventure built by SPP Shipbuilding in Korea, was immediately delivered to Cargill on a 12 month time charter arrangement.
Ireland's first custom-built cruise terminal costing £7m is planned for Belfast Harbour, the new facility will be able to handle the next generation ships which carry over 4,500 passengers and crew.
The seized bulk-carrier Clipper Faith (1998/19,354grt) has been sold at auction for €4.8m to Greek owners.
