Transport Minister held 'frank' crisis talks to prevent closure of Irish Ferries route

Transport Minister Shane Ross has held "frank" crisis talks with the chief executive of Irish Ferries' parent company in a bid to prevent the closure of the Rosslare to Cherbourg route next spring.

Mr Ross confirmed he has urged the head of Irish Continental Group, Eamon Rothwell, to cancel the closure plans, despite admitting "it is a completely commercial decision" and that "we can't tell him he can't do it".