The lack of a Cork border control post is driving up food prices, importers say

A Cork TD says the lack of a full inspection post is costing the port trade, inflating prices, and increasing emissions

TD James O’Connor said the lack of a post is severely impacting the growth of the port while causing additional pollutant emissions and increasing costs for importers and consumers. Picture: Larry Cummins

A full border control post for the Port of Cork is again being sought to facilitate inspections of agricultural products. Cork East Fianna Fáil TD James O'Connor asked agriculture, food, and marine minister Martin Heydon in the Dáil to consider the move.

The Port of Cork Company previously stated that the current system results in higher prices for consumers of products such as bananas, pineapples, melons, grapes, and citrus fruits.