*Photograph: Brian J. Goggin
DREDGING OF Kildysart Pier has been requested to reinstate access at the location.
Arguably the capital of the Lower Fergus Estuary, Kildysart Pier was first referred to in Lewis’ Topographical Dictionary of Ireland published in 1837 but was in existence well before this date.
In a proposal before the West Clare Municipal District, Cllr Ian Lynch (IND) requested Clare County Council to work with or commission relevant agencies to dredge the harbour to reinstate access. He also wanted the Chief Fire Officer and Shannon Airport to investigate the implications of restricted access and navigation changes at Kildysart on the Shannon Airport Emergency Plan and for Irish Water to assess the consequences of water flow changes to the Kildysart wastewater treatment facility.
John O’Malley, acting senior executive officer in the West Clare MD said they would make contact “with the relevant agencies as requested and report on what options are available in relation to this matter”.
Cllr Lynch referenced a plaque outside the boathouse in Kildysart which dates back to 1886. He noted that there had been “some changes over the years” including the removal of access. Silting is occurring due to an alteration in the flow of water. “There is a boat club down there, they have a great relationship between Foynes and Kildysart, quarter of a million over four years in revenue was coming in from it,” he claimed. The Kilrush native suggested an “engineering solution” of putting in “some pipes to let heating come in”.
O’Malley agreed that it was “vital we work to find a solution to this”. He added, “We will figure out the relevant authorities and we will get to the bottom of it literally and find a solution”. The motion was seconded by Cllr Joe Garrihy (FG).
