Brexit: Shipping lines will set up new routes to Europe to meet demand, says State agency
Importers and exporters urged to ‘trial’ direct routes to Continent
Shipping companies will respond to “unanswered demand” for more direct ferry services to mainland Europe if Brexit congests the key UK “landbridge” route, the State’s maritime development agency said.
Hauliers have said the increased frequency of sailings between Ireland and Cherbourg in France to a daily service from January was welcome but that it would not serve as a substitute to the speed and ease of transit currently, before Brexit comes into effect, over the landbridge.
Liam Lacey, director of the Irish Maritime Development Office, urged importers and exporters shipping goods to and from Europe to “trial” direct routes between now and January when Brexit border checks begin to see if they work as alternatives for their supply chain.