Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Five ports are designated as being of national importance, Dublin, Cork, Shannon Foynes, Rosslare and Waterford. Within that, there are three tier 1 ports, Dublin, Cork and Shannon Foynes. All of them have their challenges. Dublin Port is a great port but it is in the middle of a city and its main channel needs to be deepened. Cork needs improved road access to Ringaskiddy. Shannon Foynes has challenges as the N69 provides substandard access to a port of its kind.

I see the potential for enormous growth in Shannon Foynes in the coming years. It is a deep-water and bulk port, meaning it can carry much cargo. However, it will need the existing road upgraded or a new road connection. The railway to the port can be reopened if there is sufficient business to justify doing so. The key step on that point is to secure the European funding. I am working with the port company in achieving that.

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