The construction industry boom on both sides of the Border helped Warrenpoint harbour to achieve a record turnover last year, it was revealed today.
Cargo handling in 2006 rose by 15 per cent to 2.8 million tonnes and turnover hit the record of £4.24 million.
Announcing its annual results, Warrenpoint Harbour Authority also highlighted progress with its development plans for the harbour, modernisation programme and the installation of a roll-on roll-off ramp which will allow it to accommodate larger vessels.
Peter Conway, chief executive of the Harbour Authority, said: "Warrenpoint's central location midway between Belfast and Dublin allows us to attract trade and provide an efficient service for customers across the island of Ireland.
"Moreover, the continued boom in the building industry in both the Republic and Northern Ireland has ensured steady growth in the tonnages of timber and steel through export."
A planned modernisation programme would secure existing employment levels for the foreseeable future and would enable the port to continue to drive the local economy, Mr Conway added.