Port traffic in Ireland grew in 2015 and is now approaching the high watermark set in 2007, official figures show.
Thanks to increased imports and exports, volumes at Irish hubs went up 7% in total, according to a report from the Irish Maritime Development Office (IMDO).
This was mainly attributed to a 7% increase in bulk traffic, which reached 29.8m tonnes.
Paschal Donohoe, minister for transport, tourism and sport, said: “2015 was a very successful year for the industry.
“The role of all ports, both national and regional, in driving growth and facilitating recovery in our regional and national economies cannot be underestimated.
“In 2015, shipping companies added capacity to accommodate the growing volumes of imports and exports and Irish port companies responded by providing the necessary services and infrastructure.”
Ireland is now turning its attention to planning for future capacity, with ambitious projects set for Dublin, Cork and Shannon Foynes in the next five years.
