The country's ports were restructured, becoming new semi-State commercial companies under the provisions of the Harbour Act, 1996.
There are now 12 major ports vested in new companies which have taken over from the former harbour authorities. While the State will be the sole shareholder, each of the port companies will have the freedom to manage its port on a more commercial basis than formerly and to develop new services and facilities to meet the needs of their customers.
Mr Sean Hanratty was appointed chairman of the new Foynes Port Company.
