Work has started on new infrastructure at Rosslare port to handle post-Brexit checks on goods coming into the country from outside the EU.
The border control development will include facilities to check food products and compliance with sanitary legislation and are designed to provide "protection for the EU single market," according to the Office of Public Works (OPW).
The project includes 28 new buildings and will replace temporary infrastructure and processing facilities which have been in place since new regulations came into effect when Brexit kicked in at the beginning of 2021.
Minister of State with responsibility for the OPW Patrick O'Donovan, was in Rosslare Europort to mark the start of work for the Terminal Seven development and enabling works.
"The OPW has worked very closely with all State agencies and the port authority, Iarnród Éireann, to bring this project to this important milestone," the minister said.
"Rosslare Europort continues to operate as a live operational port and the OPW, together with main contractor John Paul Construction are working closely and collaboratively with the port authorities to ensure that this immense construction project will proceed in tandem with the busy operations of Rosslare."
He said that it will also help with the development of Rosslare and the wider south-east region.
The work is being carried out by John Paul Construction following a tender process.
Managing director Liam Kenny said it's a "significant project" for the company and also for the country, "given the role that given the role the upgraded port will play in a post Brexit euro economy".
