Stop ‘pussy-footing’ about Rosmoney harbour – Hyland

Stop ‘pussy-footing’ about Rosmoney harbour – Hyland


Áine Ryan

OVER two years after the tragic drowning of Clew Bay islander, Tommy Gibbons, the  Cathaoirleach of Westport Town Council, Cllr Christy Hyland has told officials to stop ‘pussy-footing’ around and expedite the works at Rosmoney Harbour.
Cllr Hyland was responding to confirmation that an application for a Foreshore License  for the works had been made some time ago but that a request for information about ‘ecological matters’ had delayed its progress.
The works, which have been scaled back due to funding restrictions,  involve the installation of a pontoon and gangway at the busy pier, near Westport.
“How long have we to wait? The safety aspect at this pier must be addressed or do we have to wait for another tragedy to occur. This is also a vital element of the tourism product in the Westport area, as well as being important for local people who use this pier on a daily basis,” Cllr Hyland said.  
Shortly after the death in July 2009 of Inishlyre islander, Mr Gibbons – often likened to ‘the shepherd of the sea’ – the then Town Manager, Peter Hynes assured an area meeting that upgrade works would be undertaken at Rosmoney Pier.
At last week’s meeting officials said that a Part 8 planning application would be advertised soon.
Meanwhile, Fianna FΡil’s Cllr Margaret Adams suggested a memorial should be put in place to the late Mr Gibbons. She also raised the issue of parking facilities at the harbour.