He was speaking at a major seminar held in Dublin on developing Ports and Airports infrastructure in Ireland.
The Minister said: “Ports are the key gateways to the north’s economy. They handle some 95% of our external trade with an increasingly global marketplace. The quick, economic and reliable movement of goods through the ports is therefore vital for economic development.
“The gateway ports also offer the potential of clustering economic development to create strong magnets for regional growth to the benefit of everyone on this island.”
Referring to the ongoing review of Public Trust Ports, Mr Murphy said: “My aim through this review is to ensure that the ports currently in the trust port sector continue to thrive and develop. I want to create the right legislative environment to enable the ports to operate efficiently and effectively, and avail of the growing, all-island economy.”
Mr Murphy concluded: “These are exciting times for the economy of the island of Ireland. The return of devolved government to the North, and the greater sense of stability and purpose which has accompanied it, provide enormous commercial opportunities for our sea and air ports.”
Minister Conor Murphy was speaking at a seminar entitled “Gateways to an All Island Economy: Developing Ports and Airports Infrastructure”, held in the Croke Park Conference Centre.
Organised with the support of the Irish Business and Employers Confederation (IBEC) and Confederation of British Industry (CBI) Joint Business Council, the seminar was attended by a wide range of key players in the ports industry across Ireland, including the Chief Executives of the five main commercial ports: Dublin; Belfast; Cork; Waterford and Warrenpoint.
Notes to Editors:
- DRD launched a paper for consultation on 21 June 2006 entitled: “Ports Policy – Your Views Invited – Powers, Status and Governance of Public Trust Ports in Northern Ireland”.
- Minister Murphy has identified the resolution of the Ports Policy Review as one of his priorities since taking up the Regional Development portfolio upon the restoration of devolution.
- Resolution of this Review will require new legislation and the agreement of the Northern Ireland Assembly. Minister Murphy has indicated his hope to be in a position to announce a way forward in the Autumn.
- For media queries contact the DRD Press Office, Anne Armstrong 028 9054 0004. Outside office hours, please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.
