Kelly welcomes PERS Certification for the Port of Cork

Sean Kelly, MEP for Ireland South and Leader of Fine Gael in the European Parliament, has warmly welcomed the news of the Port of Cork’s successful recertification under the EcoPorts’ Port Environmental Review System (PERS). This marks the sixth time the Port of Cork has achieved this prestigious environmental certification.

“It is extremely positive to see the Port of Cork once again receive PERS certification,” Kelly said. “This recognition highlights the port’s commitment to environmental sustainability and its proactive approach to tackling climate change. As change our energy system, ports are fundamental in this transition, especially when you consider the future developments of offshore wind and even also green hydrogen.”

PERS is the only port-specific environmental management standard in Europe, and receiving this certification underscores the Port of Cork’s dedication to managing its environmental impact. “For Cork to be recertified for the sixth time speaks volumes about the port’s leadership in driving green innovation and sustainability,” Kelly added.

As a long-standing member of the EcoPorts network, the Port of Cork continues to lead by example in sustainable port operations. “This is more than just a certificate in a way. It’s a symbol of Cork’s ongoing efforts to remain at the forefront of eco-friendly port management,” said Kelly. “Irish ports are playing a key role in aligning with European and global sustainability goals, and this recertification shows Cork is setting the bar for others to follow.”

Kelly also noted that the recertification comes at a time when environmental standards are becoming increasingly critical for European ports. “The PERS certification is not only a testament to Cork’s past efforts but also a commitment to its future. The port’s consistent dedication to meeting and exceeding environmental targets is something that we should all be proud of.”

In closing, Kelly emphasized the broader significance of this achievement: “This is not just a win for Cork but for Ireland as a whole. It showcases how Irish ports can balance economic activity with environmental responsibility. The Port of Cork continues to make us proud, proving once again that Ireland is a leader in sustainable development at the European level.”