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Transport attachés from across the 27 met in Cork last week for a 2-day programme showcasing a range of EU-related transport projects and initiatives in Cork, highlighting the key role of the EU in delivering national and international connectivity to Ireland. They were joined by representatives from the Transport Directorate of the European Commission (DG MOVE) and the General Secretariat of the Council of the EU.

“It is my great pleasure to kick-off our programme of Presidency Events for Transport with this informal gathering of Transport Attachés in my own City of Cork”

I’m confident that your time here will not only provide you with valuable insights into Ireland’s transport sector and the important role of the EU, but also an opportunity to strengthen the relationships that are so essential to our work at EU level.”

“The presentations and discussions reflect our key Presidency priorities for Transport — strengthening connectivity to improve the EU’s competitiveness, investing in safe, secure and resilient infrastructure, decarbonising our transport sector, and delivering for our citizens.”

“Alongside the formal programme, I hope you will enjoy the opportunity to experience some of what Cork has to offer—its culture, its heritage and its hospitality. As we say in Irish, “Céad Míle Fáilte – One Hundred-Thousand Welcomes”

Representatives from Cork Airport gave insights into the importance of regional and EU air connectivity through Cork, and outlined progress in delivering recent upgrades including its Solar PV farm upgrade and other decarbonisation projects. AirNav Ireland, Ireland’s air navigation service provider, outlined their role in managing Ireland’s airspace, a vital gateway for transatlantic travel, and providing air traffic management and other services in the North Atlantic, covering over 450,000km2 of airspace in total.

With representatives of Irish Rail, delegates also toured Cork’s Kent Station, the main train station serving Cork City, which has recently undergone a significant upgrade supported by the EU Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF), to increase capacity on the network under the Cork Area Commuter Rail (CACR) programme. Following this, delegates travelled to Midleton and viewed the ongoing Glounthaune to Midleton twin-track upgrade, which will facilitate further service improvements in the coming years as part of the CACR programme.

Finally, delegates enjoyed a boat tour of Cork Harbour, the second largest natural harbour in the world. Representatives of the Port of Cork Company (PoCC) joined the tour to brief delegates on the current operations and future development of the Port, including the key role of EU funding under the Connecting Europe Facility. In 2024, PoCC was awarded €38.4 million for the construction two quay berths a which will transform the port into an offshore renewable energy (ORE) hub and bolster its international freight capabilities.