Ministers welcome landmark agreement between Port of Cork Company and Belfast Harbour Commissioners
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From: Department of Transport
- Published on: 12 March 2026
- Last updated on: 12 March 2026
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 partnership has been endorsed by both the Government of Ireland and the Northern Ireland Executive.
“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 for Transport, Darragh O'Brien
“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 International and Road Transport, Logistics, Rail and Ports, Seán Canney
“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 of State with responsibility for Rural Transport Jerry Buttimer
“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."
Minister for Infrastructure in the Northern Ireland Executive Liz Kimmins
“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.”
Michael Walsh, Chairperson of the Port of Cork Company
“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.”
Dr. Theresa Donaldson, Chair of Belfast Harbour Commissioners
The MoU creates a formal basis to deliver on shared objectives on the island for the next ten years. 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.
Notes
The partnership focuses on four core objectives:
- Offshore wind energy: facilitate the growth of the offshore wind sector, ensuring that port infrastructure and services support the supply chain and logistics required for the industry and its evolving needs;
- Cruise tourism expansion: jointly market and improve cruise facilities to enhance the passenger experience and drive regional tourism spend, building on the success of the current collaboration through Cruise Ireland;
- Innovation and resilience: identify and secure joint funding for catalytic capital projects, including clean shore power solutions and digital hub developments to enhance port competitiveness;
- Community and skills: encourage meaningful social value through employability and skills programmes, particularly in lesser served areas, ensuring the maritime economy delivers broad social value.
The Memorandum of Understanding was signed by representatives from both Belfast Harbour Commissioners and the Port of Cork Company and comes into effect immediately.