From Ships to Shore: Port of Waterford Team Members Share Stories

Port of Waterford 1111 - Port of Waterford Champions Sustainability

Port of Waterford has released the seventh episode of its podcast series, Port of Waterford 1111, marking 1,111 years of Ireland’s oldest port. The new episode, hosted by RTÉ Seascapes’ Tom MacSweeney, focuses on the Port’s green agenda and sustainability initiatives, featuring an in-depth discussion with Karen Sugrue Hennessy, Chair of the Port’s Green Committee, and Gerard O’Donnell, Marine Officer from the Port of Waterford.  In the episode, Karen explains how the board of directors, led by John Tracey, established the Green Committee to ensure the port’s decisions are made through a climate and environmental lens. The committee, which includes CEO David Sinnott, monitors compliance with legal and governmental climate responsibilities and ensures that sustainability underpins all operational and strategic decisions. The port has committed to achieving a 51% reduction in emissions by 2030 and reports regularly to the government on its progress. Port of Waterford’s location at Belview offers one of the shortest routes from Europe, making it a climate-friendly choice for shipping. Using the port’s unique direct rail link can reduce CO₂ emissions by up to 20%, with further potential to expand rail connections to serve new regions. The port’s commitment to sustainable trade is further demonstrated by its membership in the Paris EcoPort network and certifications, including ISO 50001, highlighting its leadership in sustainable port operations. The episode also explores the port’s growing role in renewable energy, with plans to support both onshore and offshore wind generation.  The team’s work extends to biodiversity and community engagement, with initiatives such as the publication of Wild Waterford and the implementation of the port’s first Biodiversity Action Plan. These efforts include habitat planting, partnerships with local schools, and participation in the All-Ireland Pollinator Plan. Gerard highlights the port’s ongoing ecological work, including wetland bird surveys and wildlife monitoring. The port operates within several protected areas along the River Suir and maintains close communication with local councils, the Chamber of Commerce, and community stakeholders to ensure its activities enhance both the local environment and regional economy. Port of Waterford’s sustainable practices also deliver tangible environmental benefits. During operations last year, the port generated an estimated 95,000 tonnes of carbon savings for society, primarily through sustainable transport and material recovery. The Port of Waterford 1111 podcast series explores Ireland’s rich maritime heritage through conversations on trade, culture, and innovation. The latest episode reinforces the port’s vision for a sustainable future while honouring its historic role at the heart of Waterford’s community and economy. Listeners can hear the full episode and previous instalments of Port of Waterford 1111 at www.portofwaterford.com/port-1111 [https://www.portofwaterford.com/port-1111/], where new episodes will continue to be released throughout 2025. Listeners can hear the full episode and previous instalments of Port of Waterford 1111 at www.portofwaterford.com/port-1111 [https://www.portofwaterford.com/port-1111/], where new episodes will continue to be released throughout 2025.

Port of Waterford 1111 - Explore Port Safety Ahead of Ireland’s Port Safety Week

Explore Port Safety with Lorraine Casey Ahead of Ireland’s Port Safety Week To mark Port Safety Week and celebrate 1,111 years of Ireland’s oldest port, the Port of Waterford has released the sixth episode of its podcast series, Port of Waterford 1111. Hosted by RTÉ Seascapes’ Tom MacSweeney, the episode features Lorraine Casey, Health and Safety Officer at the Port of Waterford, discussing the vital role of safety in ports. Lorraine explains that Port Safety Week, now in its fifth year, aims to raise awareness of the everyday risks present in ports—from heavy machinery and container handling to the complex movement of vehicles and people. She highlights that safety is not just about wearing personal protective equipment but also about situational awareness, avoiding complacency, and understanding that even experienced workers can face hazards. Using real-life scenarios, she shows how minor lapses can have serious consequences, emphasising the importance of a culture where everyone feels empowered to stop unsafe acts and speak up. The episode also explores how digital technology is increasingly used to support health and safety management, from risk assessments to monitoring compliance. Lorraine shares the satisfaction of seeing a workplace where employees actively engage with safety rules, think ahead about potential hazards, and take responsibility for themselves and others. She stresses that health and safety is more than regulations—it is about common sense, teamwork, and creating an environment where people can work safely without incident. Listeners will also hear how Waterford collaborates with other Ports and the Health and Safety Authority to share observations, lessons, and training exercises, ensuring safety is continuously improved. Lorraine describes initiatives such as defibrillator training for all staff and hands-on exercises with emergency services, highlighting how preparation and awareness can prevent accidents and save lives. The Port of Waterford 1111 podcast series also features earlier episodes exploring Ireland’s maritime heritage, including the port’s historical role in trade, its impact on the city’s development, and its connections with Europe. These episodes combine history, culture, and local insight, making the series essential listening for anyone interested in maritime Ireland. To listen to the full episode, visit Port of Waterford 1111 [https://www.portofwaterford.com/home/port-1111/]. Until the end of 2025, the podcast series will continue to be updated, exploring Ireland’s and Waterford’s maritime heritage at https://www.portofwaterford.com/port-1111/ [https://www.portofwaterford.com/port-1111/]  Listeners can hear the full episode and previous instalments of Port of Waterford 1111 at www.portofwaterford.com/port-1111 [https://www.portofwaterford.com/port-1111/], where new episodes will continue to be released throughout 2025.

Port of Waterford 1111 - Voices of the Quay: Waterford's Living Maritime History

As the Port of Waterford celebrates an extraordinary 1,111 years of maritime legacy, a new episode of the Port of Waterford 1111 podcast shines a spotlight on the personal stories that bring that history to life. Hosted by veteran maritime broadcaster Tom MacSweeney, the series continues to explore the cultural, economic, and social threads that have made Waterford a cornerstone of Irish port life since the Viking era.In the latest episode, released in the lead-up to National Culture Night 2025, listeners are invited to walk the quayside through the memories of three iconic Waterford figures: Tony Fitzgerald of Fitzgerald’s Menswear, June Darrer of Dooley’s Hotel, and Ann Cusack of the Granville Hotel. These conversations offer a rich tapestry of experiences that span generations, from cattle being driven through the streets and dockside flooding, to family-run hotels, meat factories, and the rise and fall of industrial landmarks.The episode paints a vivid picture of a city in transformation. It touches on everything from smuggling nylons and chasing loose cattle to rebuilding after floods and reimagining the riverfront. Each guest shares deeply personal reflections on how the port shaped Waterford’s economy, character, and community spirit. Whether it’s stories of dockers splicing rope, emigrants arriving on the Great Western, or spontaneous acts of civic beautification on a derelict quay, the episode is a love letter to the enduring vitality of the river and the people who made it central to their lives.As Waterford continues to evolve into a modern destination city, the podcast reminds listeners of the resilience and adaptability that have always defined it. With the addition of new infrastructure like bridges and green spaces, the river remains not only a historic artery but a living part of the city’s future.Port of Waterford 1111 is available on all major podcast platforms and via the Port’s website at www.portofwaterford.com/port-1111 [http://www.portofwaterford.com/port-1111]. Visitors to the city can also scan the QR code at the Harbour Master’s Office along the quay to listen while walking the waterfront.  Listeners can hear the full episode and previous instalments of Port of Waterford 1111 at www.portofwaterford.com/port-1111 [https://www.portofwaterford.com/port-1111/], where new episodes will continue to be released throughout 2025.

Port of Waterford 1111 - Hear Historian Eamonn McEneaney on the story of Ireland's oldest City & Port

To mark Heritage Week and celebrate 1,111 years of the Port of Waterford, Ireland’s oldest port, has released the third episode of its new podcast series, Port of Waterford 1111. Hosted by Tom MacSweeney of RTÉ’s Seascapes, the episode features an interview with Eamonn McEneaney.  Eamonn is a renowned historian and former Director of the Waterford Museum of Treasures, where he served for over 25 years, playing a pivotal role in preserving and promoting Waterford's Viking heritage. His contributions have been recognised with an honorary doctorate from South East Technological University and his appointment as an Officer of the Royal Norwegian Order of Merit for his efforts in strengthening cultural ties between Ireland and Norway. The Port of Waterford 1111 podcast series invites listeners on a journey through over a thousand years of maritime history with historian Eamonn McEneaney and maritime expert and broadcaster Tom Macsweeney. This episode delves into the fascinating story of Waterford Port, revealing its significance as one of Ireland’s oldest and most important trading hubs. Listeners can hear the full episode and previous instalments of Port of Waterford 1111 at www.portofwaterford.com/port-1111 [https://www.portofwaterford.com/port-1111/], where new episodes will continue to be released throughout 2025.

From Ships to Shore: Port of Waterford Team Members Share Stories

From Ships to Shore: Port of Waterford Team Members Share Stories in New Podcast Series  Moving Cargo, Connecting Communities: Waterford Port Podcast Highlights 1,111 Years of Trade and Tradition   The Port of Waterford has launched a brand-new podcast series titled Port of Waterford 1111, marking an extraordinary 1,111 years of maritime activity on the River Suir. Hosted by renowned maritime broadcaster Tom MacSweeney, the series brings listeners inside the operations of one of Ireland’s most historic and strategically important ports. In the latest episode, MacSweeney meets with key figures shaping the present and future of the port, including Shane Buckley (Coxswain of the pilot boat), Victor Whitty (Marine Pilot), Ian Moriarty (Deputy Harbourmaster), Albert Lennon (General Manager, South East Port Services), and Paul Keating (Suir Shipping). These voices offer a rare and engaging glimpse into the complex and vital work behind the scenes. From Viking voyages to modern multimodal operations, this is a celebration of 1,111 years of connection, resilience, and renewal. 🌊⚓ 🎧 Listen now at www.portofwaterford.com [http://www.portofwaterford.com/] or wherever you get your podcasts. #PortOfWaterford1111 #MaritimeHeritage #WaterfordPort #IrishPorts Listeners can hear the full episode and previous instalments of Port of Waterford 1111 at www.portofwaterford.com/port-1111 [https://www.portofwaterford.com/port-1111/], where new episodes will continue to be released throughout 2025.