‘Death trap’ Mayo pier needs urgent investment - local ferry operator

Roonagh Pier, the vital link and principal access point to both Clare Island and Inishturk, is particularly busy at this time of year and is a “death trap”, according to local ferry operator, Carl O’Grady.

“I see one mistake, I see a rope caught in the propeller and I see a serious accident and that's what I see”, he tells viewers of a recently posted Youtube video.

READ MORE: Roonagh Pier development ‘could be a saviour’ of Mayo islands, says councillor

He views the situation as no longer tenable and believes that the current condition of the pier, near Louisburgh, “poses a serious and escalating risk to life—particularly for boat operators, elderly passengers, children, and all users during the harsh winter months.”

He is calling for Roonagh Pier, Clare Island Harbour, and Inishturk Harbour to be added to the National Development Plan as critical rural infrastructure.

He urges the government to prioritise a phased development plan, beginning with Roonagh Pier as the mainland hub, to ensure continuity of safe access to both islands.

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In a rallying call, he says: “We have the money in the country at the moment to be looking at large scale investments. The ones that need to be prioritised are the ones that will save lives.

“These harbours are not just points on a map; they are the veins through which island life continues to flow. Without investment, the risks will multiply—and the consequences could be grave. We urge the Government to act decisively now, before a preventable tragedy compels them to do so.”