By Dan Walsh
Wexford Independent TD Verona Murphy has indicated that good news is pending for Rosslare Europort with the introduction of a new ferry route from Le Havre to Rosslare.
Speaking from Leinster House on Tuesday morning, the Deputy has said; “A new route connecting Le Havre and Rosslare is due to be announced. This route will operate one sailing a week which is welcome news for both freight and tourist traffic, however, much more needs to be done.
“I have been told unofficially that Irish Ferries are already almost booked out with tourist traffic for 2022 which inevitably leaves very little room for freight traffic. We cannot have a situation in Rosslare where it is freight traffic versus tourist traffic, we need the capacity for both and with that the Port urgently needs investment of €200 million to allow pressing infrastructure improvement, crucial IT development and the progress of future wind energy development.
Deputy Murphy continued; “Two years ago, in October 2019, as President of the IRHA (Irish Road Hauliers’ Association), I led a delegation to Le Havre in France where we met with the French government for discussions around linking Rosslare Europort with Le Havre. At the time I said this would be the real game changer for Rosslare and I stand by that. The hugely positive economic impact for the entire South East region through such a route cannot be overstated”
The Independent Deputy added; “In direct contradiction to the Governments IMDO (Irish Maritime Development Office) report of November 2020 which would, if allowed, have completely impeded the 400% traffic through put increase at Rosslare Europort, the port continues to need additional sailings and more capacity. The port needs a service that is not more than 20 hours duration.
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