Ireland’s dependence on ferry services and its geographical separation from mainland Europe must be taken into account when Brussels develops transport and environmental policies, according to the concerns raised by Irish MEP Cynthia Ní Mhurchú.

The issue has gained additional significance following the European Commission’s publication of its first EU Strategy for Islands, which recognises the structural transport disadvantages faced by Ireland, Malta and Cyprus.

For Irish hauliers, the debate could have implications for ferry charges, maritime emissions legislation, investment in port infrastructure and the overall competitiveness of Irish exporters.

The Commission has committed to examining the cost of island geography and considering connectivity and competitiveness issues in forthcoming reviews of EU maritime environmental legislation.

The question now is whether that recognition will translate into practical measures to protect island economies from disproportionate transport costs.