#420 – Two races sailed outside Roches Point in light winds saw a conclusion after nine races and one discard to the 2013 420 dinghy National Championships at Royal Cork Yacht Club this evening. Results available to download below.

The wind died completely at the end of the last race as brothers Harry and David Whitaker (RCYC) took first place overall, with Robert Dickson and Sean Waddilove (HYC and SSC) second and Ewan McMahon and Colin O'Sullivan (HYC / MYC) third. 16 boats competed.

Dickson and Waddilove, ISAF Youth Worlds reps in Cyprus, put up the main challenge and had more first places than the Whitakers but had to settle for second overall to the ever consistent brothers.

Lizzy and Cara McDowell (MYC) were first girls in 6th place overall. Second girls were Cliodhna no Shuilleabhain and Jil McGinley (KYC /RCYC) with Kate and Alanna Lyttle (RSGYC) in third place

For many of the leading sailors this event set them up nicely for their next challenge as no sooner were the boats back in the dinghy park on Sunday than they were being loaded onto a big trailer and off to Pwllheli in North Wales for the 420 Junior Europeans which start later this week. 

#portofcork – The Port of Cork Company have today announced their annual results for 2012 and despite the on-going national economic downturn; the port returned an improved performance in 2012 compared to 2011.

Total traffic in volume terms amounted to 9.05 million tonnes, against a volume of 8.8 million tonnes in 2011. Turnover amounted to €21.8 million, an increase of 1.87% and after deducting costs, the profit on ordinary activities before taxation amounted to €1.36 million.

Commenting on the 2012 annual results, Port of Cork Chief Executive, Brendan Keating said: "We are pleased to announce our 2012 results today which have returned an improved performance compared to 2011."

He continued: "Reliable accessible ports delivering prosperity is vital to the achievement of economic recovery in Ireland. We see investment in handling equipment and facilities as key to the future of our business and that of our customers and we are intent on growing our business. The Port of Cork is central to a brighter future for the Irish economy because of the value it brings in moving goods to market for both customers and businesses alike."

Throughout 2012, the company maintained its commitment to capital investment by making additions to fixed assets of up to €6 million. This brings investment levels by the company, since incorporation in 1997, to €103 million. Recent achievements in 2012 saw the Port of Cork complete a new compound in Ringaskiddy to accommodate a new Maersk transatlantic service which commenced in January 2012. This is the first Lo-Lo (Lift on Lift off) deep sea service in Ireland. A new dry bulk store at the Deep-water berth in Ringaskiddy was completed by port customer Arkady, which has helped to increase the volume of trade through the port. This will also help to facilitate the growth of the dry bulk sector. In 2012 the Port of Cork also took delivery of a new pilot boat named 'Failte' and won the business of servicing the Exxon Mobil oil exploration project.

Oil Traffic at Philips 66, Whitegate Oil Refinery amounted to 5 million tonnes, an increase of 1.36%. Non-oil traffic amounted to 3.64 million tonnes showing an increase on 2011 of 6%.

Container traffic through the port increased by 6%, bringing the total volume of containers handled at the port in 2012, to 166,285 TEU. Currently the Port of Cork has weekly container services calling to mainland Europe, Rotterdam, Antwerp, Zeebrugee and Southampton. A deep sea transatlantic container service linking Central America to North West Europe also operates weekly.

While the liquid bulk and container traffic increased, imports of animal feedstuffs also increased. The Port of Cork anticipates further increases in the agri-business, particularly when the reforms to the CAP come into effect in 2015.

In 2012, the Port of Cork welcomed 57 cruise liners, carrying in excess of 100,000 passengers and crew to the region. The visiting cruise liners make a very significant contribution to the economy. The investments made by the Port in recent years developing the cruise facilities in Cobh, continue to show positive returns with booking levels continuing to grow year on year. At the global annual cruise shipping exhibition, Seatrade Miami 2012, the Port of Cork was awarded 'Best Shore Side Welcome' and 'Best Tour Guides'. These awards highlight the commitment and effort the Port of Cork make for every cruise liner calling to Cork.

Brittany Ferries' weekly passenger service from Cork to Roscoff had another successful season operating between March and November 2012. The Port of Cork remains fully committed to establishing new routes from Cork and continues to work to develop a route from Cork to Northern Spain.

Consistent with the Strategic Development Plan Review of 2012, the Port of Cork is planning for the delivery of new Port infrastructure in the lower harbour. This key infrastructure will be required to service the businesses of Ireland for the next 20 years, as they grow and prosper and avail of trading opportunities in global markets. In 2012, by way of planning for this infrastructure, the port carried out a consultation process with An Bord Pleanála. Following the recent publication by Government of the National Ports Policy Statement, in which the Port of Cork was highlighted as a Tier 1 port of National Significance, it is hoped that such recognition will help to accelerate the consultation process. The Port of Cork proposes to lodge a planning application with An Bord Pleanála by the end of 2013, following further public consultation and community engagement.

During 2012, the port was involved in a number of local community based projects in Cork Harbour. Additionally, the very successful schools initiative organised by the port, continues to grow. Now in its seventh year, the initiative attracts up to 20 primary schools from the Cork city and harbour area and helps raise awareness of the Port of Cork and Cork Harbour among 5th class children.

Sustaining the quality of the environment in Cork Harbour, particularly in areas which have the potential to be affected or influenced by Port Operations remains a priority for the Company. The Port of Cork is as always committed to the highest standards of environmental management through the implementation of the environmental management programme and standards consistent with the renewed ISO14001 accreditation and Eco Ports foundation.

#CorkHarbour - Untreated sewage is being discharged from "multiple" locations into Cork Harbour as residents await the development of new waste water treatment works.

As reported by Fine Gael Councillor Deirdre Forde, harbour officials have given confirmation that "there are still multiple untreated discharges to Cork Harbour.

"It is not simply a case of repairing a broken sewer to cease untreated discharges," the spokesperson added.

Waste water from Crosshaven, Carrigaline, Ringaskiddy, Passage West and Cobh, among other areas, is discharged through a number of outflows into the lower harbour - a region earmarked for a new drainage scheme project that's projected to be completed three years from now.

Harbour officials underlined that the level of the water table has no impact on the discharge, and that as the lower harbour is not designated for bathing there are no issues for swimmers.

#corkharbour –  Camden Fort Meagher commemorated the 75th anniversary of the handover of the fort from British Crown Forces to The Irish Defence Forces writes Claire Bateman. Scroll down for photos of last night's ceremony.

Camden Fort Meagher, situated in Crosshaven, Cork Harbour, Co. Cork, was one of several Treaty Port forts transferred to the Irish Government in 1938. It is recognised as being one of the finest remaining examples of a classical Coastal Artillery Fort in the world.

Paul Brierley, Project Coordinator at Camden Fort Meagher, emphasised the significance of the event. "We are delighted to commemorate this historic occasion which marks a pivotal point, not only in the fort's history, but also in our National history." The fort was officially renamed Camden Fort Meagher on the histrical evening, highlighting two significant figures in Britsh and Irish military history, the Earl of Camden and Thomas Francis Meagher.

The ceremony for the occasion last evening was hugely historical, and was filled with emotion, poignancy, happiness and pride. The fort was filled to capacity, the sun shone on everyone and every place. The Cork designed and built L.E. Eithne was moored off the fort. She was designed by Patrick Martin, Chief Naval Architect at Verolme Cork Dockyard where she was built. As Flaghip of the Irish Naval Service, Eithne led by firing the first salute, and this was returned by an Army salute with two 25 pounder canon.

The scene with the crowds, excitement, blazing sun, the presence of the British Ambassador, His Excellency Dominic Chilcott CMG, complete with elegant panama hat – could have been reminiscent of an Indian setting though we knew it was our own beautiful country! Other distinguished guests for the official renaming of the Fort included the Mayor of Cork County, Councillor Noel O'Connor, Cork County Manager, Martin Riordan and a very distinguished guest in the person of Mr. Michael Kelly a 97–year–old veteran who had seen service at the Fort when it was under British Command.

LE Eithne passes by Fort Meagher during last night's commemoration. Photo: Bob Bateman. Scroll down for more photos.

The Irish Army, Irish Navy and retired units from reserve forces that have trained at the fort were also represented on the evening.

The natural setting was made all the more splendid by the yachts taking part in the Royal Cork Yacht Club Thursday night racing and made a lovely sight passing the L.E. Eithne on their way back to Crosshaven.

All in all, a most magical evening that will provide lasting memories for all that were privileged to be present and no memory more poignant than that of the Army figure silhouetted in the evening sunlight raising the Tricolour to the haunting sound of the lone Bugle.

The evening concluded with the official flypast of the Irish Coastguard Search and Rescue helicopter from Waterford.

#ClubMedCruise – As previously reported on Afloat.ie, Club Med's impressive five-masted cruiseship Club Med 2 (1992/14,983grt) docked into Cork Harbour this morning, writes Jehan Ashmore.

She had sailed overnight from Brest and her presence alongside Cobh will make for a refreshing sight compared to the usual albeit considerably larger cruiseships that compete with the town's steep sided ramparts.

The 637 foot long the Club Med 2 which is normally associated with the splendours of the Mediterranean Sea during the summer months also cruises in Caribbean waters during the winter.

A crew of 200 cater for the floating resorts 439 passengers who can indulge in a stress-free atmosphere thanks to two swimming pools and fitness rooms. Passengers can also enjoy sporting pursuits ranging from sailing, snorkelling, water-ski and windsurfing which are provided from the nautical hall of the vessel. Guests are accommodated in 175 cabins and 11 suites.

Tomorrow the Port of Cork is set to welcome 1,500 Australians and 400 Kiwis to the town as part of their Sydney to Sydney 104-night World Cruise on board the Sea Princess. In addition Cobh will be hosting Australia Day and hopefully with the weather to match!...while watching the Rugby action 'Down-Under'.

#corkharbour – Minister for Agriculture, Food and Marine, Simon Coveney T.D. joined organisers of Cork Harbour Open Weekend in the Royal Cork Yacht Club, Crosshaven to officially announce the dates for the exciting harbour open weekend. The weekend event will take place on 14th & 15th September 2013 and once again organisers promise it to be an excellent weekend of fun for all the family with many events free to the public.

Organisers are particularly excited about the raft race organised by the scouts on the River Lee which no doubt will be a great spectacle from Cork City quays.

The open weekend is a great opportunity for people to see exactly what Cork Harbour has to offer, and this year will be no exception with the second largest natural harbour in the world playing host too many different activities.

While the programme of events is still coming together, organisers confirmed there will be an open day in the RCYC for anyone keen to try out sailing, a children's crab fishing competition in Cobh, a free open day at the National Maritime College of Ireland (NMCI), a rowing race around Spike Island, an Air Sea Rescue Demonstration and family fun on Spike Island. An Irish Naval vessel will also be open to the public for free tours on both Saturday and Sunday in Cork City.

The idea for a Harbour Open Day, now extended to a full weekend, emerged from discussions between various stakeholders involved in the development and implementation of the Integrated Strategy for the Harbour in 2007. This has been taken forward by the Harbour Management Focus Group (HMFG) which meets quarterly to exchange information on Harbour issues. A HMFG working group comprising representatives from UCC, City and County Councils and the Port of Cork set about working together to engage users of the Harbour and to organise the Open Day.

If anyone is interested in getting involved with Cork Harbour Open Weekend or would like to organise an event, please contact [email protected] to request an event application form. Your event will be promoted on the lead up to the weekend via local media, CorkHarbour.ie website, twitter and facebook.

#portofcork – The Port of Cork has announced an investment of €3 million in new plant equipment following an agreement with crane manufacturer, Liebherr. The investment includes a new LHM 550 Harbour Mobile Crane which will be in operation at Ringaskiddy Deep-water Berth.

Increasingly, importers to the Port of Cork are using Panamax size vessels of over 200 metres in length, so providing the most capable equipment to discharge these vessels is vital to ensuring a fast and efficient turnaround. With the recent fodder crisis in Ireland, the Port of Cork has seen an increase of hay shipments and dry bulk to the port, justifying the need for new plant equipment. The new LHM 550 crane will enhance the Port of Cork's capabilities in handling this type of vessel and is critical to efficient bulk and container discharge operations in Ringaskiddy.

Over the last two years, the Port of Cork has invested up to €7 million in the Ringaskiddy Deep-water Berth demonstrating their commitment to providing the best possible service to port customers. Following the purchase of additional handling equipment in Ringaskiddy in 2012, the Port of Cork and global shipping company Maersk, were able to commence their direct container service to Ireland. Container services such as this have enabled the Port of Cork to greatly increase volumes of imports and exports. The Port has seen a dramatic increase of almost 50% in bulk cargo and anticipates a further increase in demand in this dry bulk sector highlighting the need for continued investment in new equipment.

Speaking about the investment, Mr Denis Healy Manager of Engineering Services/Deputy Chief Executive, Port of Cork said: "The LHM 550 crane is designed for versatile and efficient cargo handling and will provide greater efficiency for all our customers. This adds to the recent investment the Port made last year in our new Container Terminal handling operations in Ringaskiddy. The Port has seen a dramatic increase in throughput in Ringaskiddy mainly due to an increase in bulk cargo and with the current fodder crisis in Ireland; there have been a number of large shipments of hay arriving into the Port."

The Port of Cork is ideally located to offer state of the art facilities in the offshore oil exploration market in the Celtic Sea and Porcupine basin. In 2012 the Port of Cork successfully assisted with the BarryRoe Oil Exploration Project. This creates opportunities and challenges for the Port in terms of berths available; however the Port is confident that the current development plans for Ringaskiddy will answer the needs of the port and those of the region in the short, medium and long term.
Other areas which the Port of Cork anticipates an increase is the agri-business, particularly when the reforms to the CAP come into effect in 2015. The Port of Cork expects to handle much larger shipments in the future so it is imperative that the Port has the right equipment and berths available to be able to handle different types of cargo.

The Port of Cork is a key link to the economic success of Ireland and in particular the entire Munster region. 98% of goods imported or exported from Ireland are moved by ship, highlighting the importance of ports to our economy. Earlier in the year, the Port of Cork outlined plans for potential Port development in Ringaskiddy. These proposed developments are the first phase of the implementation of the Port of Cork's Strategic Development Plan Review (2010), the core principles of which were endorsed in the recently launched National Ports Policy.

This Policy has also identified the continued commercial development of the Port of Cork Company as a key strategic objective in terms of allowing the Port of Cork to meet the needs of the Country in the short, medium and long-term. It is the hoped that the Port of Cork will be in a position to lodge a planning application for the future development of Ringaskiddy at the end of 2013.

#NMCI – The President of Cork Institute of Technology, Dr Brendan Murphy, speaking at Conferrings at The National Maritime College of Ireland at Ringaskiddy in Cork Harbour today, Thursday, June 20th, said that nine years on since opening, the NMCI could be seen to have come of age.

Degrees awarded included BSc in Nautical Science, Bachelor of Engineering in Marine & Plant Engineering and Bachelor of Arts in Leadership Management & Naval Studies. Over 50 students received their parchments.

Dr Murphy said the shared vision of maritime education, training and professional development by CIT, the Irish Naval Service and the Department of Education and Defence ensures that the education available at the NMCI is world class. "This National Centre represents a state investment of the order of €50 million in Maritime Education and Training. During the last two years R&D activity has attracted funding for over ten projects – this activity now involves ten full-time personnel: the growth in R&D has led to the establishment of the Halpin Centre for Research & Innovation. NMCI Services offers specialist maritime training and consultancy both at home and abroad and the new, dedicated, Bridge Simulation Team will ensure that we capitalise on the extensive simulation facilities available here.

The continued development of the proposed Maritime and Energy Resource Cluster (IMERC) involving a partnership between CIT, the Naval Service and UCC provides a focus within Ireland for applied research and enterprise development in the maritime and energy sector."

Dr Murphy continued "It is now clear that the future of CIT, its students and staff is the creation, in partnership with IT Tralee, of the multi-campus Munster Technological University. CIT and IT Tralee have a shared vision for the creation of the MTU which will result in a new university which will build on the strengths of the existing partners and will deliver significant added value via an expanded and enhanced role in regional development."

Dr Murphy offered his congratulations to the Graduates on their achievements and wished them well in to the future.

#portfofcork – Are you a budding photographer with a keen interest in all things related to Cork Harbour and the Port of Cork? If so then you should enter the Port of Cork Photography Competition.

Through the lens of people who live and visit Cork, this competition is looking for exciting imagery which reflects the theme "Cork Harbour – A Port in Focus". Cork Harbour and the Port of Cork play such important roles in the everyday lives of many people and it is hoped that some of this can be captured through imaginative photographs of our action-packed harbour.

The winning photographer will have his/her photograph designed into a postcard which will be made available free to tourists via local tourist offices and will also be given to individual cruise passengers when they visit Cork. The winner will also be invited to a special launch of their postcard in July, when An Post and the Port of Cork will unveil a new stamp collection.

The competition is open to all ages and levels based on the theme "Cork Harbour – A Port in Focus". The closing date for entries is 10th July 2013.

Photographs must be based on the theme "Cork Harbour – A Port in Focus" and can be emailed to Sara Mackeown [email protected] by the 10th July. Late entries will not be accepted. Photographs should be no larger than 3MB. Winner will be announced on 12th July 2013. Please do not submit faces of people without their prior permission. The winner will retain full copyright of their image but must allow Port of Cork to reproduce the image, without charge, on the postcard and for PR and promotional purposes.

For more information please contact Sara Mackeown, Port of Cork Tel 021 4625375 or email [email protected]

#classicboat – Crosshaven Traditional Sail 2013 kicks off this weekend in Cork Harbour with boats arriving from Friday at the Hugh Coveney pier, Crosshaven. The first race of the festival is at 2pm on Saturday and is to be followed by a best dressed pirate and wench competition.

On Sunday in a highlight of the weekend gathering Pat Tanner will give a talk on the Traditional Boats of Ireland Project in Cronin's Bar, Crosshaven.

The Traditional Boats Project is the result of a combined effort by Irish people who are passionate about the rich diversity of boat types throughout the country. This project is a by-product of a loosely affiliated group of individuals with a shared realisation that Ireland's traditional boat types are rapidly disappearing.

The full programme of events is below: 

Friday 14th:

Boats arriving at Hugh Coveney Pier
1900 – 2030 Registration for the Early Birds
followed by
2100: Welcoming Reception in "O'Reilly's Bar"

Saturday 15th :
0900 - 1230 Registration of Boats at Sail
Office on Pier
1200: Knot-tying competition
1300: Race briefing on the Pier
1400: Race start in vicinity of Grassy
1700: Boats returning –
1830: Mad Fish best dressed pirate and wench competition
Bar Food, Music & Craic in the Pubs

Sunday 16th:
1000: Rise & Shine & Post Mortems
1200: Traditional Boats of Ireland talk by Pat Tanner in Cronin's Bar
1300: Skipper's briefing on the pier
1400: Racing (all types of Craft)
1600: Crab-fishing competition on the Pier, best dressed pirate under 14 competition
1700: Spectacular Parade of Sail as Race
finishes at the Pier followed after much deliberation with the Prize Giving & Craic at Johnny's Return/ Buckley's Bar

NB: Times are subject to change due to Weather/Tides