The Port of Cork Company's new Cork Container Terminal in Ringaskiddy, billed as the largest investment of any Irish port in over a century, will commence operations this weekend. .

The long-awaited launch of CCT will enable the semi-state company to more efficiently handle containers and potentially increase trade and facilitate regional and national economic growth.

CCT will initially handle ICL's Cork to US service as well as the weekly Maersk Costa Rican service as Port of Cork continues the process of relocating its deep-sea trans-ocean cargo business to the site.

"This is a proud and monumental milestone for our people and our business. CCT is the largest investment in our 250 year history," said Conor Mowlds, chief commercial officer. "It’s a pivotal project in our strategic efforts to enhance and future proof our offering which will position Cork as an international gateway for trade."

Port of Cork reported traffic throughput of 10.5m tonnes in 2020, and the terminal forms part of its long-term strategic effort to enhance and futureproof its offering while positioning itself as an international gateway for trade.

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Some 35 of the company's top customers from industries such as medtech, pharma, IT, chemical and agri-food account for €145m of manufacturing output, and support over 45,000 jobs in the south-west region.

Cork Port is the world's second largest natural harbour. The multi-modal port is also one of only two Irish ports to service all six shipping modes: lift-on/lift-off, roll-on/ roll-off, liquid bulk, dry bulk, break bulk and cruise.

The CCT launch takes place a day after Rosslare Europort announced plans to turn the port and its environs into a renewable energy hub for offshore wind, aligning with existing development plans as part of a total combined investment of €350m.

Photo: ICL containers ready to be loaded onto freight ships.