Londonderry Port wins Irish Port of the Year

NWCCI Chairman, Niall Birthistle today congratulated The Londonderry Port and Harbor Commissioners on the announcement that their port has been named Irish Port of the Year.

"This is excellent news and is testament to the vision and commitment of everyone involved in the organisation who have worked to ensure that their facility is now second to none on the Island. This vital piece of infrastructure is a product of the investment and commitment offered by the private sector in the North West. NWCCI feels that both Governments much talked about commitment to the region now needs to be backed up by a solid program of investment in the region. The access infrastructure to and from the region, particularly that of roads needs to be urgently addressed." Mr Birthistle said.

Londonderry Port were delighted to be confirmed as Irish Port of the Year at the prestigious Export and Freight Transport and Logistics Awards 2005 at a glittering event in Belfast on Friday.

The Chairman of the judging panel, Mr Philip Shepherd, Managing Director of Norse Merchant Ferries stated that the innovation and achievement demonstrated by Londonderry Port ensured that the 2005 Port of the Year award is anchored firmly at Lisahally.

Chief Executive Brian McGrath said "This award and recognition from our industry peers, shows how much progress we have made in establishing a truly regional Port in the North West of Ireland with top class levels of professionalism and customer service".

The Commissioners embarked on an aggressive growth program in 2003 as part of a five year strategic plan. During the last two years the port has invested c£10m in new capital projects and replacement of assets. During this time trade has increased by c25% to a total c1.5m tonnes. This investment has also created a substantial number of new jobs both directly in the port and indirectly for new customers.

The port is well on course to achieve its overall goals of doubling trade and doubling turnover by the end of the strategic plan in 2008.