In a statement just issued to WexfordToday.com, Wexford TD James Browne has described the decision of Irish Ferries to avoid plans for 2019 service between Rosslare and France as a damning indictment of Government interest in Rosslare Europort.
Irish Ferries confirmed that it is unlikely they will operate a service between Rosslare and Cherbourg in 2019.
Reacting to the news, Deputy Browne explained the background to Irish Ferries’ decision.

JAMES BROWNE TD says Government has no interest in Rosslare Europort.

“Irish Ferries’ decision to drop the Rosslare route and prioritise its Dublin route is a devastating blow for Rosslare and Wexford and represents a further downgrading of the port. After all, we know that the shortest route to Europe is from Rosslare; we know how the duration of the alternative Dublin to Cherbourg ferry is roughly four hours longer. I encourage Stena Line and P&O to fill the gap in services”.
“This year, I raised Rosslare Europort in the Dáil during special debates, questions to An Taoiseach and questions to the Minister for Transport on a fortnightly basis.
Today’s announcement confirms the facts – this Government has no interest in developing Rosslare Europort as our country’s gateway to continental Europe”, Deputy Browne summarised.
“With the threat of a hard Brexit becoming more likely by the day, the Government should be developing the port as a natural gateway to continental Europe. Yet the Government opened a recruitment campaign for Agricultural inspectors at Dublin Port and Cork Port but not for Rosslare Europort, further evidence that the port is not a priority”, Deputy Browne concluded.