Ministers O’Brien and Canney have welcomed the signing of a significant Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Port of Cork Company and Belfast Harbour Commissioners today.
The MoU will create a new strategic partnership designed to support all-island economic growth, accelerate the delivery of offshore renewable energy (ORE), and boost cruise tourism across the island of Ireland.
The agreement creates a formal basis to deliver on shared objectives on the island for the next 10years. It will enable further strategic coordination on port infrastructure projects, the digital transformation, and driving decarbonisation. By leveraging their collective expertise, the ports aim to strengthen their roles as key enablers of the regional economy north and south.
The partnership has been endorsed by both the Government of Ireland and the Northern Ireland Executive.
Minister for Transport, Darragh O’Brien, said: “International connectivity is the lifeblood of our island economy. This MoU aligns with our national goal of achieving net-zero through the rapid deployment of offshore wind.
“By pooling resources and expertise, the Port of Cork and Belfast Harbour are ensuring that we remain competitive on the world stage while delivering meaningful environmental and economic benefits for citizens north and south.”
Minister of State with responsibility for International and Road Transport, Logistics, Rail and Ports, Seán Canney said:
“This MoU represents a commitment from the Port of Cork and Belfast Harbour Commissioners to collaborate in the development of facilities which will increase connectivity across the island. It also contributes to the all-island economy through increased trade and tourism, and to energy security through the deployment of Offshore Renewable Energy in the Irish Sea.”
Minister of State with responsibility for Rural Transport Jerry Buttimer said: “I wish to welcome the signing of this MoU between the Port of Cork and Belfast Harbour Commissioners. This represents an opportunity for both ports to expand and grow thorough a collaborative and meaningful partnership. This will also facilitate economic growth and expansion in the Cork and South West region with the Port of Cork as a key driver of this development.”
Minister for Infrastructure in the Northern Ireland Executive Liz Kimmins said: “This partnership between Belfast and Cork is a significant step forward in our efforts to build a more resilient and sustainable economy. By working together, our ports can better navigate global challenges and seize the immense opportunities presented by the green energy transition.
“I’m pleased that this collaboration will not only drive trade but will deliver positive impact for our people and wider society across the island by providing a vital boost to local communities through skills development and job creation.”
Michael Walsh, Chairperson of the Port of Cork Company, said: “As an island nation, our ports are central to our economic future, and this collaboration is about more than just infrastructure. It’s about innovation and shared resilience, and ensuring this island is in the best position to support and facilitate growing sectors like cruise and offshore renewable energy. This MoU is about creating a more connected and prosperous island for all.”
Dr. Theresa Donaldson, Chair of Belfast Harbour Commissioners, said: “Belfast Harbour has long been a catalyst for regional prosperity. This agreement with the Port of Cork allows us to scale our ambitions, particularly in the cruise and offshore wind sectors.
“We are committed to using our collective expertise to ensure our ports are world-leading, innovative and sustainable hubs that serve as an economic foundation for future generations.”
