Derry’s Port and Harbour Commissioners have paid tribute to their outgoing chairperson, Garvan O’Doherty, who led their board meeting for the last time today.
Garvan O’Doherty (left) is thanked by Regional Development Minister Danny Kennedy.
Mr O’Doherty has served as a Port and Harbour Commissioners for the past 15 years, serving one term as deputy chairperson and two terms as chairperson since 2006.
Speaking on behalf of the Commissioners, Port chief executive, Brian McGrath, thanked Mr O’Doherty for his “dynamic leadership” and for his “passion” for the work of the Port and Harbour.
He added: “His years of service as Commissioner, deputy chairman and chairman mark a distinguished career in public service and he leaves a strong legacy for the future.”
Key milestones during Mr O’Doherty’s term as chairperson included the sale of Fort George and the consequent decision to make capital investment in fixed assets and equipment rather than property, and more recently, the securing of the £80 million Evermore Renewable Energy plant for Lisahally.
Mr O’Doherty said the ongoing efforts to invest and grow at Lisahally were in keeping with their responsibility to run the port in a sustainable manner for future generations.
He added: “By taking a strategic approach to building our core business over the past eight years, we have been able to generate enough profits to continue to fuel future growth. It has also enabled us to maintain our role as one of the most significant players in the economy of the North West.”
Proud as he is of the Port’s business and economic achievements, Mr O’Doherty admitted he was equally pleased about the many local projects they supported through their marine expertise and voluntary support.
He added: “I was particularly proud of our sponsorship role in the Clipper and Return of Colmcille events in 2012 and 2013.
“The development of marina infrastructure in the city centre provided a platform for the Clipper event which will live long in the memory of our citizens.
“Through Clipper and The Return of Colmcille, we worked alongside key stakeholders in the city, and demonstrated that tapping into the potential of the Foyle helps to showcase the best this city has to offer.”
Mr O’Doherty is to be succeeded by Bonnie Anley who will take up the position on 8 February next.
