Infrastructure Minister has led the debate at the
Second Stage of the Harbours Bill as it makes its way through the
Assembly.
Minister Kimmins outlined the main intention of the Bill was to
enable the Ports at Belfast, Foyle, Coleraine and Warrenpoint to
operate more efficiently and to help them strengthen their
contribution to the regional economy.
Speaking in the Assembly debate the Minister said: This
Bill is the first step in implementing updates arising from a
comprehensive review of Trust Ports. That review identified a
number of challenges faced by my Department, Trust Ports and
harbour authorities. It represents a measured and balanced
package of reforms designed to modernise our ports, strengthen
their independence, and unlock their full commercial potential
while retaining appropriate safeguards in the public interest.
Taken as a whole, this Bill delivers on three key objectives. It
enhances the independence of Trust Ports by removing outdated
controls that are no longer appropriate. Second, it supports ONS
reclassification, ensuring that the governance framework reflects
the true nature of the Ports. And third, it empowers our ports
commercially, equipping them with the tools they need to compete,
grow, and contribute to the regional economy.
The Bill will be supported in part by subordinate legislation,
specifically four Harbour Orders covering the ports of Belfast,
Coleraine, Foyle and Warrenpoint. These will provide ports with
further enhanced independence and commercial powers, while
ensuring that activities remain aligned with port-related
objectives and protect the long-term financial sustainability of
each port.
