Applied research will give policymakers evidence needed to protect Ireland’s economic prosperity beyond 2040
Dr Eoin Plant O’Toole, Professor in Logistics and Supply Chain Management at The Business School, is leading on a recently awarded research project for the Irish Marine Institute, designed to analyse the future capacity demands for Irish Tier 1 and Tier 2 commercial state ports extending beyond the year 2040. The research team also comprises Dr Mahinda Yapa Mudiyanselage from Edinburgh Napier and Dr Nikolaos Valantasis Kanellos from the Technological University, Dublin.
“A particular emphasis will be placed on the strategic evolution of Dublin Port, given its pivotal role in the national freight network, and the establishment of a resilient and efficient national port system capable of meeting long-term trade requirements,” explains Dr O’Toole.
The project will involve a comprehensive assessment of the existing infrastructure and strategic masterplans of Ireland’s key ports. Furthermore, an international benchmarking exercise will be undertaken to identify global best practices in enhancing port capacity and performance, particularly those strategies that minimise the need for significant land expansion.
The research will also delve into the critical market demand drivers that will shape the future of the Irish ports network, including economic growth projections, planned regional infrastructure developments, and ancillary factors such as decarbonisation, climate change adaptation, and the emergence of new markets like offshore renewable energy.
By the conclusion of this project, the research team will deliver a detailed analysis of future port capacity and demand, substantiated by both qualitative and quantitative data. Key performance indicators for evaluating port capacity will be identified through the international benchmarking process. The primary drivers influencing future market demand within the Irish ports network will be clearly articulated, providing a crucial understanding for strategic planning.
Finally, the project will assess the potential economic consequences for the Irish national economy should the necessary port capacity not be provided in a timely manner.
“The overarching goal is to furnish policymakers and stakeholders with a robust evidence base to inform strategic decisions regarding the long-term development of port infrastructure in Ireland, ensuring the nation’s continued economic prosperity and competitiveness in the decades to come,” says Dr O’Toole.
Professor Eoin Plant O’Toole is the programme leader on the MSc Global Logistics and Supply Chain Analytics, which is accredited by the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport.