On July 17, 2013, Ireland Post issued a set of three stamps featuring the Port of Cork.
The history of the port dates back to 1813, when the Cork Harbour Commissioners were established. They remained in existence until 1997, when responsibility transferred to the Port of Cork Company, a commercial semi state company.
Today, the Port of Cork is the key seaport on the south of Ireland and is one of only two Irish ports which service the requirements of all six shipping modes i.e. lift-on lift-off, roll-on roll-off, liquid bulk, dry bulk, break bulk and cruise. Highlighted as a Tier 1 Port of National Significance in the 2013 National Ports Policy, the Port of Cork acts as a major facilitator of both imports and exports. The port is also a regular port of call for cruise ships, which in turn contributes significantly to the local economy.
The stamps were designed by Steve Simpson and feature
three activities of the port. The 60c stamps feature the Clipper Round
the World Race 2010 (leisure) and a container ship preparing to berth
(freight). The 90c stamp features the Cunard liner “Queen Elizabeth”
(cruise).