Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins has opened the Second Stage debate on the Harbours Bill at the Northern Ireland Assembly.

She said the legislation is intended to help the ports of Belfast, Foyle, Coleraine and Warrenpoint operate more efficiently and to strengthen their contribution to the regional economy.

Minister Liz Kimmins told the Assembly: "This Bill is the first step in implementing updates arising from a comprehensive review of Trust Ports. That review identified a number of challenges faced by my Department, Trust Ports and harbour authorities. It represents a measured and balanced package of reforms designed to modernise our ports, strengthen their independence, and unlock their full commercial potential – while retaining appropriate safeguards in the public interest.

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"Taken as a whole, this Bill delivers on three key objectives. It enhances the independence of Trust Ports by removing outdated controls that are no longer appropriate. Second, it supports ONS reclassification, ensuring that the governance framework reflects the true nature of the Ports. And third, it empowers our ports commercially, equipping them with the tools they need to compete, grow, and contribute to the regional economy."

The Bill will be accompanied by subordinate legislation, including four Harbour Orders for Belfast, Coleraine, Foyle and Warrenpoint. These will give ports further independence and commercial powers, while keeping activities aligned with port-related objectives and protecting each port’s long-term financial sustainability.