Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 3 March 2026
273. Deputy Robert O'Donoghue asked the Minister for Transport the capacity for Ireland to host large, seized vessels in Irish ports; the potential associated costs and manpower required; whose responsibility is it to maintain security and jurisdiction over seized vessels; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17218/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraIreland’s capacity to host large, seized vessels in Irish ports is limited and is best approached on a case-by-case basis.
The ongoing example of hosting a large, seized vessel in the Port of Cork Company (PoCC) has created logistical issues. The 190-metre-long MV Matthew, which was seized by the Revenue Commissioners in 2023, has had to be relocated regularly to different berths within the port to facilitate commercial shipping.
Generally, long-term vacant berths are not available in the State, particularly for larger vessels, and frequent movements may be required to allow trade to continue. These movements use the vessel’s own machinery where practical and require a ship’s crew to operate the machinery, keep the vessel securely moored, and prevent pollution.
A seized vessel must be appropriately crewed, although this may be at a reduced level, subject to agreement with the Harbour Master and following a risk assessment.
Costs depend on the port and the specific berth in use. They are charged to the vessel/management company or the seizing agency. Where no owner is identifiable, costs are borne by the State as the seizing authority. Costs typically incurred include pilotage, pilot boat services, tonnage rates and towage, in line with established schedules. Ports may also apply additional charges for berthing, security and other services.
Specific details for the State-owned commercial port companies under my remit are as follows:
Dublin Port Company (DPC) does not have spare capacity to host large, seized vessels. The impact of detaining a large vessel on a berth for a significant period would exceed the direct charged cost, as it would block a high-throughput berth in a port that facilitated 17,000 vessel movements in 2025. In addition, there are ship-length and draft limitations in DPC that restrict the accommodation of such vessels.
Port of Cork Company (PoCC) is currently accommodating the MV Matthew. Long-term vacant berths are generally unavailable for the reasons outlined above.
Shannon Foynes Port Company (SFPC) has limited capacity to host a large seized commercial vessel, and any request would need to be assessed on a case-by-case basis.
Port of Waterford Company (PoWC), as a small inland port, has no capacity to host large seized vessels. Its small size is further constrained by restricted access, owing to a relatively narrow and shallow shipping channel.
