The Daily Star Ireland
Taoiseach Simon Harris has confirmed that plans for the partial reopening of Holyhead Port next Thursday are on schedule. He discussed the matter with Welsh First Minister Eluned Morgan during a phone call earlier today.
Following the conversation, Mr. Harris noted that while Holyhead Port will need to adjust its operations, it aims to maintain the same volume of sailings as before its closure last month. The port sustained significant damage during Storm Darragh, which led to the closure of ferry berths at Terminals 3 and 5.
Last week, a spokesperson for Holyhead Port announced that Terminal 5 is expected to reopen on Thursday, 16 January, provided weather conditions remain favorable. In response, Mr. Harris highlighted the need for increased resilience measures and collaboration between the Irish and Welsh governments to address future challenges.
He stated that a new task force focused on resilience at Holyhead Port would be established, acknowledging the impact of climate change and the importance of strengthening the port’s infrastructure. Mr. Harris also expressed gratitude to the Welsh government for their cooperation during the disruption.
The damage to Holyhead Port last month prompted many haulage companies to divert trucks to other ports, a practice likely to persist in the short term. Ger Hyland, President of the Irish Road Haulage Association, emphasized the importance of the reopening, noting that Holyhead handles 4.8 million tonnes of freight annually, representing 60% of Ireland’s freight traffic.
Speaking on RTÉ’s News at One, Mr. Hyland expressed optimism about the reopening of Terminal 5 and its capacity to manage freight traffic. However, he stressed the need for long-term solutions to avoid a repeat of the disruptions that occurred before Christmas, when alternative sea routes had to be scrambled for passengers and freight.
He called for the establishment of a dedicated task force and the development of additional options beyond Holyhead. Mr. Hyland also advocated for the introduction of at least one more shipping line on the Irish Sea to ensure reliable freight movement.
