Port appointee delays ‘stifling development’

Delays in appointing directors to the Port of Cork have the potential to stifle its development, it has been claimed.

The company has been unable to convene board meetings since last June as it does not have sufficient members in place to form a quorum.

The company’s chief executive Brendan Keating and a worker director also sit on the board.

An independent director was appointed by Transport Minister Leo Varadkar last August. But there are still five vacancies to fill.

Cllr Alan Coleman, a former member of the Port of Cork’s board of directors, said the delay by Mr Varadkar in making the appointments could have serious consequences.

“The serving term of a number of directors of the port ended last June. At that time, the chairman’s term was extended by the minister for three months. This period was to allow Minister Varadkar time to appoint new directors.

“But, since last August, no further appointments have been made and the directors are unable to call a meeting.”

Mr Coleman said major strategic decisions have to be made by the board, such as resubmitting the plan for a deep water cargo handling terminal in Ringaskiddy.

“These plans are at an advanced stage but they can’t be lodged until they’re approved by the directors,” he claimed.

The Fianna Fáil county councillor said the Port of Cork had also expressed interest in the possible purchase of the IFI site at Marino Point, Cobh.

“If that site was to become available in the morning, its purchase would need approval by the board of directors and there is no board in place.

“I can’t understand why it is taking Minister Varadkar so long to make up his mind on who should fill the five positions.”

Mr Keating confirmed the five positions are outstanding. “I have been assured by the Government that this will be dealt with as a matter of priority and I hope we will have appointees in a matter of days,” he said.