#ShippingReview – Jehan Ashmore reviews the shipping scene over the last fortnight.

Eco-Trader, Arklow View took her first sea trials for Arklow Shipping’s Dutch division when the cargsoship newbuild took to open waters off Eemshaven.

Another first took place back in Ireland, as the Irish Maritime Development Office (IMDO) hosted the Ship Commerce Forum, the event entitled ‘Maritime Finance: Opportunities for Ireland’.

Dublin Port Company’s opposition to plans for housing on Poolbeg peninsula, raised fundamental issues of whether this area is suitable for residential-led regeneration.

Another port with infrastructure plans, the Port of Cork is set to gain €30m from the European Investment Bank (EIB) to development the country's biggest natural harbour.

Quinn Cement to build new cement silos at Warrenpoint Harbour in a £2.5 million investment. The silos 7,500 tonnes capacity will be used to export the product.

Irish Continental Group (ICG) appoints David Ledwidge as a Director of the Company, having previously held position of Chief Financial Officer designate.

Maersk Group is to return to the Port of Liverpool through subsidiary Seago Line. In addition the line is make direct calls to Dublin Port, a first ever for the Maersk group on the Europe 'feeder-service' to North African and Mediterranean ports.