Dún Laoghaire Harbour Company

TAKE A DIFFERENT LOOK

Speaking at the official publication of the Dún Laoghaire Harbour Development Plan on Monday 27 April, 1992, the Minister for the Marine, Dr. Michael Woods, TD said "the plan presents a strategy for the development of Dún Laoghaire Harbour into the next century. It promotes a vision of a high quality environment and of a balanced development of its commercial and public services, marine-related industrial activities, recreation and tourism potential. The implementation of these proposals will benefit both the Harbour and the Borough of Dún Laoghaire".

Dr. Woods continued "following presentation of the report to Government, I have approved in principle the main outline of the Plan including its proposals for the development of the ferry terminal". The Minister has authorised the Board to progress its Plan to the next stage - that is to proceed with the necessary site investigation work,

cost benefit analyses and other studies needed to justify the proposed expenditure set out in the Plan and investigate the sources and costs of funding the development.

Referring to the ferry service Dr. Woods said that he was aware of the strong degree of popular support for the retention of the service at Dún Laoghaire. "I wish to place on record my unequivocal support for the retention of the ferry service to Dún Laoghaire and the Harbour Board's proposals for upgrading the facilities", said the Minister.

Dr. Woods said that an increase in mooring capacity is long overdue if progress in developing the recreation potential of the Harbour is to be achieved. In addition, public access for dinghy users, rowing boats and sail training needs to be expanded. "There is scope for more recreational use of the Harbour to allow more locals and tourists to participate", said the Minister.

"I am committed to preserving and enhancing the Harbour as a national public amenity. I am glad to see the ongoing restoration work and improvements undertaken and planned and the staging of events such as Harbour Week and the Dún Laoghaire Harbour Regatta Weekend", added the Minister.

Dr. Woods emphasised that Dún Laoghaire Harbour is recognised as a public resource of major importance with a particular relationship existing between the Harbour and the Borough of Dún Laoghaire.

"I am very much aware of the different views expressed since the Draft Plan was published last year and I am pleased that these specific concerns have been addressed in this Plan. I am confident that the people of Dún Laoghaire will be the ultimate beneficiaries of the major developments proposed", said the Minister.

Sport-Eco co-ordinate a variety of marine based sporting activities from the Marine Activity Centre, on the West Pier, Dún Laoghaire. Whether it's a ride in a traditional currach you're after or a course in sailing for the children, Sport-Eco in conjunction with Dún Laoghaire VEC will be able to help you out. Among the many activities they organise are sailing and fishing for handicapped and disadvantaged children, nature trail excursions in the Harbour environs, exploring the flora and fauna, and basic seamanship courses. All enquiries to the co-ordinator at the Marine Activity Centre Telephone 280 7426.

Based at the Marine Activity Centre on the West Pier Balally Sailing Club is a voluntary children's sailing club. Any child can start from the age of 12 and go on a five year, all year round, step by step, training programme, covering courses such as Sail Training; Boat Maintenance; Water Safety; VHF training; Navigation training etc. 90% of courses are free. The Club is funded by annual membership fee of £60 and relies on its sponsors and voluntary instructors. Information from the Manager, Kyron O'Gorman at 280 4422.

A summary brochure has been prepared as a guideline to the Development Plan for Dún Laoghaire Harbour prepared by the Dún Laoghaire Harbour Board. The brochure will be available at the Harbour Regatta exhibition.

A copy of the Development Plan can be obtained from Mr. Frank Sheridan, Secretary, Dún Laoghaire Board, Harbour Lodge, Crofton Road, Dún Laoghaire, Co. Dublin.
Phone: 2801311, Fax: 2809607. Telex: 91798. (Please include £1.50 to cover postage and packing).