Dublin Port boosted through ferry travel

Turnover and profits have been boosted at Dublin port as a result of an increase in passengers travelling by ferry through the port.

Figures from the company reveal that there was a 20 per cent rise in the number of cars passing through the port in the first six months of 2009 compared to the previous year.

This increase was matched by a growth of 7.6 per cent in passenger numbers during this period, which includes those opting to travel to the UK by a Dublin to Holyhead Ferry.

As a result, the port generated a profit of €26.97 million (£23.23 million) over the last year.

"Dublin Port Company continues to perform strongly despite the downturn with sustained profitability and increased dividend payment to its shareholders on the back of rigorous management of its cost base," the company said in a statement.

Enda Connellan, chief executive of the port, added that the organisation is "well placed to see through the current economic challenges".

Written by Aditi Charanji