Louth ferry service suspension sparks concern for Cooley Peninsula
Louth Fianna Fail TD Erin McGreehan said she was “deeply disappointed” by the news
The suspension of the Carlingford Lough ferry service has been described as a “setback for the wider Cooley Peninsula.”
A notice posted on the Carlingford Lough ferry website recently announced the service will not be operating a service between Greencastle in Down and Greenore in Louth on any date in 2026.
Local Fianna Fail TD Erin McGreehan said she was “deeply disappointed” by the news adding that “the ferry has become an important tourism and community link between Counties Louth and Down since it first launched in 2017, supporting local businesses, tourism operators and visitors on both sides of Carlingford Lough.”
The Louth TD described the news as “a setback for the wider Cooley Peninsula and Mourne region” but also said that “we also have to be honest about the long-term reality.”
She said that while the service was hugely valued, it has struggled to achieve the level of commercial viability needed to sustain year-round and long-term operations without additional public support.
The Louth deputy said that she has been working closely with Louth County Council, the Shared Island Unit, and in particular with Minister Peter Burke to progress a proposal that could finally provide a sustainable future for this vital cross-border route.
“The proposal being advanced by Louth County Council is centred around a PSO-style model — similar to public service obligation supports used successfully in other transport sectors — which would recognise the ferry not simply as a private commercial venture, but as critical tourism, regional connectivity and economic infrastructure for the entire Carlingford Lough region,” she said.
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“I believe that approach offers the best opportunity to secure a stable, sustainable and long-term future for ferry connectivity across the lough. It is clear that without structured government partnership and support, services of this nature face enormous challenges in remaining viable.
“The Carlingford Lough Ferry has been much more than a transport link. It has been part of the identity and tourism offering of the region, connecting communities, supporting hospitality businesses and showcasing one of the most beautiful natural landscapes on this island.
“I will continue engaging intensively with the Minister, the Shared Island Unit and all stakeholders to ensure every possible avenue is explored to restore a sustainable ferry service for the future.”
`Carlingford Lough ferry said that all tickets with outstanding trips valid for travel in 2026, will have their expiry dates extended so they can be used when the ferry is back in service.