#Port&Shipping - Over the last fortnight, Jehan Ashmore has reported on the shipping scene, where China had approved foreign-flagged to ply coastal waters under Beijing's pilot project to liberalise the country's cabotage restrictions.

European Sea Ports Organisation (ESPO) meets the new EU Commissioner for Transport, Violeta Bulc. Among the EPSO delegation was ESPO Vice Chair Eamonn O'Reilly, who is also the Chief Executive of Dublin Port.

Cammell Laird, the Merseyside shipyard completed a £49.5m major refit of Royal Fleet Auxiliary's Fort Victoria (A387), the yard's largest single contract in 2014 and since the 'cluster' contract began in 2008.

A massive containership which experienced engine problems while drifting off the West coast, Atlantic Companion took shelter in Bantry Bay to undergo repairs.

The Irish Institute of Master Mariners for the first time has elected a woman to lead the organisation.