Swansea-Cork route - Ferry good for business

IN these dark times it is refreshing to hear of good news. We refer to the ferry service between Cork and Swansea which has exceeded all expectations.

By any yardstick, the operation has more than proved itself. By the end of the first year, the ferry will have carried around 85,000 passengers, far surpassing the original target of 70,000.

That is a remarkable performance considering that the Fastnet Line-owned MV Julia has only been in operation since March following the withdrawal of the original Swansea Cork Ferries service three years ago.

The success of this venture is testament to the courage and conviction of the many individuals and groups, including local authorities who have worked so hard to get the service up and running against considerable odds. Given the history of attempts to consolidate a lasting service on the route, it is particularly satisfying.

An invaluable link in promoting tourism between Britain and Ireland, it has been a major financial boost for the south west region, injecting €35 million into the economy at a time when every euro is a plus factor.

Underlining the importance of Britain in the overall picture of the Irish tourism industry, almost 70% of the passengers were holidaying in Munster, particularly in Kerry and Cork. However, Wales has also gained significantly from the service.

The success of this venture is ample proof of the positive power of local communities to help themselves.