Information regarding Holyhead Port Closure – 12 December 2024

Since difficulties first arose in Holyhead Port on Saturday 7 December 2024 following Storm Darragh, the Department of Transport has been in constant contact with Dublin Port to monitor the situation and to liaise on contingency planning to avoid/reduce the possibility of congestion arising in the port or surrounding transport routes. There is no such congestion occurring in or around Dublin port at present.

The Department continues to liaise with all stakeholders, including other national ports, to address the ongoing challenges to the supply chain. From today 12 December, additional capacity is being provided from Rosslare. Irish Ferries is assigning the MV James Joyce to replace the Inishfree. This represents approximately 50% extra capacity. While the Port of Cork currently has no direct UK sailings, it has indicated that it has the capacity to operate one sailing a day, possibly two based on scheduling. Solutions for the medium term, if necessary, are also under consideration.

The Department is actively engaged with stakeholders to ensure information flow and to provide updates as they occur.

Minister of State Lawless has expressed his appreciation for the flexibility and resilience shown by the maritime and haulage sectors during this challenging period and noted that it is reflective of the agility and determination demonstrated during both Brexit and the Covid-19 crisis.