THE PORT of Cork has reported an increase in turnover last year to a record €24.9 million.

Traffic exceeded 10 million tonnes in 2007 for the third year and at 10.6 million tonnes achieved the highest annual throughput in the port's history.

Trade performances increased as oil traffic reached 6.1 million tonnes, an increase of 3 per cent.

Container traffic grew by 8 per cent to a new record of 200,000 containers. The port applied for planning permission for a new container terminal at Oysterbank in Ringaskiddy, Co Cork last year under the Strategic Infrastructure Act 2006. However, An Bord Pleanála refused permission for the proposal. Despite the decision, the port is still strongly committed to developing a new container terminal to cater for the expected growth in traffic.

Non-oil traffic performed well in 2007, increasing 3 per cent. Increases in other areas such as cereals, coal, bulk cement, trade vehicles, molasses and timber and cruise traffic were also recorded.

The port hosted a record 41 cruise ships, with more than 50,000 passengers, last year. They contributed €30 million to the local economy.

Port chief executive Brendan Keating said: "In 2007 the company invested €8.7 million in large-scale capital projects and plant, and will continue a sustained investment in port infrastructure."