A review of the National Ports Policy is currently underway by the Department of Transport.

The review will consist of a two-part consultation process. Part 1 will involve the publication of an Issues Paper, inviting submissions from stakeholders. Part 2 will be a shorter public consultation on the Draft Policy document. The objective is to present a new draft policy to the Government in 2025 following a thorough and inclusive consultation.

As an island nation on the periphery of Europe, the maritime transport sector plays a crucial role in the functioning of our economy. Approximately 90% of all goods traded by Ireland pass through our commercial port network, underscoring the importance of a resilient and efficient maritime transport industry for our economic success. The importance of our ports is not just economic. Located, as many ports are, in the heart of urban centres and areas of environmental significance, how our ports interact with both the communities that provide their social licence to operate, and the marine environment is something in which we all have a deep interest.

This revised policy will provide the vision for how our ports will meet these challenges.

Submissions

Public consultation for review of National Ports Policy was open for submissions from 19th October 2023 until 15th January 2024 and this consultation period has now closed. Stakeholders and interested parties were invited to respond to the issues raised in the Issues Paper as well as put forward any other relevant issues for consideration.

View the Review of National Ports Policy 2013 pdf

View the Irish Ports Capacity Study Executive Summary pdf