The European Union has unveiled plans to tackle the shipping elements of a no-deal Brexit by the UK.
European Commission transport commissioner Violeta Bulc presented contingency and preparedness measures on Thursday.
They have been agreed by member states and the European Parliament in record time and aim to limit the most significant disruptions caused by a possible no-deal scenario, the EU said.
The North Sea–Mediterranean core network corridor (CNC) will be re-aligned to add new maritime links between Ireland, France, Belgium and the Netherlands.
The EU wants to avoid the CNC becoming separated into two distinct and unconnected parts.
It also wants to ensure Ireland is connected to the mainland.
More money will be poured into adapting transport infrastructure for security and external border check purposes.
The EU said: "It is essential to develop the relevant infrastructure to maintain and support existing and future trade flows between Ireland and mainland Europe."
Bulc also announced a revision of ship inspections regulations to ensure "legal certainty and secure business continuity in shipping."
Inspection, survey and certification organisations recognised by the EU are assessed on a regular basis and at least every two years.
"Following its withdrawal from the Union, the United Kingdom will no longer be able to participate in the assessments," it said.
EU rules will be changed so that these organisations will still be subject to EU checks.
