Firefighters have brought a large fire at Cork Port under control and no casualties were reported, the port authority said today.
The blaze began in a grain store at a deepwater berth used for freight services shortly after 08:40.
Local residents were asked to keep all doors and windows shut and remain indoors, Cork Beo reports.
It said just over an hour later that the fire was under control.
"Emergency services remain on site to monitor the area.
Ship operations in Ringaskiddy (Deepwater Berth) have been suspended," the port authority said on Twitter.
Cork Fire Brigade units rushed to the scene with units and gardai were also there.
Images posted on social media by local residents showed a large cloud of black smoke coming from the port.
Ferry companies have increased direct freight services between Ireland and France in response to demand for an alternative route to the British "land-bridge" used by around 3,000 lorries each week to ship goods to and from mainland Europe.
Ringaskiddy & District Residents Association said: "The Port of Cork have advised that Cork County Fire Services have contained the fire and that all persons are accounted for with no injuries reported, however it is expected that the area may smoulder for some time yet.".
The Port of Cork said: "A fire has broken out at the R&H Hall grain store on the Ringaskiddy Deepwater Berth. "
"Emergency Services are on site and the Port Emergency Plan has been activated.
"Local residents are advised to keep all doors and windows closed and remain indoors."
