Cork-Wales ro-ro rolls
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A WELSH shipping company plans to start a three-times-weekly roro freight link between Wales and Cork on February 27.
The announcement by WelshIrish Ferries to operate the service between Barry in South Wales to Ringaskiddy in Cork came shortly after the Irish Government's controversial decision to end the 13+1 Line Cork-Pembroke service.
There will be accommodation for drivers only on the service. "While we have no plans to operate a passenger service from Cork to Wales in the immediate future, we have not ruled out its introduction at a later date," said Paddy Barry of Barry's Coaches, Cork, which represents the sole Irish interest in the company.
According to an official statement, the company had commissioned a feasibility study by Cooper and Lybrand some time ago. Welsh-Irish Ferries has also received financial aid from both central and local government in Wales, and has had "fruitful discussions" with the associated ports at Barry and the Cork Harbour Commissioners.
The Welsh Development Agency is investing £115,000 to acquire a 30 per cent equity stake in the company.
The statement added: "The company will have its head quarters at Barry Dock and will also be setting up offices in Cork. Initially 12 people will be employed in Wales. However, there will also be employment possibilities in Cork for a number of people."
The ship that the company will charter has not yet been decided upon, although it expects the crossing time to be around 12 hours.