• Record Turnover of £27 million, up 10% on 2002.
• Record Operating Profit of £12.8 million, up 14% on 2002.
• £40 million capital expenditure programme on going.
• 1.74 million passengers helped Belfast maintain its leading position as the busiest passenger port in Ireland.
• Traffic management measures sought in Government’s Westlink improvement scheme.

Frank Cushnahan, Chairman of the Harbour Commissioners, paid tribute to Mr Irwin’s outstanding contribution to the Port of Belfast, “Gordon has led the organisation through a significant period of growth and was the driving force behind the major development programme that established Belfast as one of the principal ports in the UK and Ireland. The Board appreciates Gordon’s dedication over the years and wishes him a long, happy and healthy retirement.”

Mr Doran, former head of Belfast City Airport, will take up his new position after Easter and will be responsible for the management and strategic development of the Port.

A graduate of Queen’s University and a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants, Mr Doran has been Chief Executive of Belfast City Airport for seven years, having previously held a number of senior management positions with Bombardier Shorts. During this time he has led the growth and transformation of the airport, attracting new services and major airlines. He was also responsible for the major redevelopment of the Airport’s passenger terminal and related infrastructure in 2001.

Welcoming the new Chief Executive, Mr Cushnahan said, “John is joining us at an important time in the Port’s development. We are confident that his experience at Belfast City Airport will be invaluable as we seek to continue to develop this business to the benefit of our Port Customers and the Northern Ireland economy.”

The Port of Belfast is a major maritime gateway linking Ireland’s importers and exporters with Great Britain, Europe and onward to worldwide markets. It handles over 65% of Northern Ireland’s seaborne trade and more than 20% of the total for the island of Ireland. Belfast is also Ireland’s leading ferry port, used by almost 2 million passengers each year.

“I’m very excited by the challenges this new role presents,” said Mr Doran. “Maintaining appropriate investment in what is a strategic asset for Northern Ireland, while promoting the growth of the business, will be a key priority and I look forward to working with the Board, Executive Team and employees in ensuring that the Port of Belfast continues to serve this island as a major gateway for both trade and passengers.”