The announcement by Stena Line of an additional vessel on the Rosslare Europort to Cherbourg route – and a doubling of weekly sailings – has been welcomed by independent TD Verona Murphy.
The move, announced by the firm yesterday (Thursday, December 10) will bring Stena Line frequency on the route from three to six times weekly each way direct services from January 2021.
This follows the announcement two weeks ago by DFDS of a new six times weekly each way direct service between Rosslare and Dunkerque.
Speaking from Leinster House, the Wexford TD said:
“This announcement goes further to opening up markets for Irish businesses. It is long overdue and is greatly welcomed by hauliers and businesses alike.
“Today’s announcement from Stena Line further supports the RORO [roll on roll off] capacity needed to service import and export trade.
Significant government investment into Rosslare Europort, in the region of €200 million, is now needed without delay so as not to hinder capacity and future trade opportunities.
“Ireland’s economy is dependent on the growth of Rosslare Europort. Government can no longer ignore the fact that Rosslare is Ireland’s most strategically placed port and that port development is pivotal in securing Irelands import and export trades, Irish businesses and Irish jobs,” the TD contended.
Deputy Murphy concluded by commending Stena Line on its “forward-thinking in light of the Brexit chaos which will ensue in January 2021” and Europort manager Glenn Carr for his “ongoing work with stakeholders”.