Averil Power (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I have tabled the matter to highlight the urgent need for Howth Harbour to be dredged in order to ensure its long-term viability as a commercial fishing port, leisure harbour and tourism destination. The harbour has silted up to such an extent in recent years that the situation in Howth is bordering on being dangerous. Even medium-sized fishing trawlers cannot enter the harbour at low tide whereas a few years ago, the harbour was accessible in all but the worst of weather. Now boats have to lie off before entering the harbour for fear of catching the bottom and damaging their vessels. Also, movement around the trailer basin at strong low tides is impossible. Groundings are now more commonplace and can result in serious engine damage.

The silting has also created problems for the Dublin Bay ferry service which has found it cannot keep to its schedule because it is restricted in terms of entering the harbour at Howth. The ferry also uses Dublin Port and Dún Laoghaire Port and does not have such problems there. Leisure boats encounter difficulties, which is likely to have a seriously detrimental effect on Howth Yacht Club's ability to hold major national and international sailing events. I have also been told that it is now a regular occurrence for visiting boats, in particular, to run aground in the entrance channel and within the harbour. I have been warned that it is only a matter of time before the harbour is blocked by grounded vessels, compromising safety and potentially preventing the operation of emergency services, including the lifeboat.

I understand that even after a decision to dredge the harbour has been made, it may take two to three years to carry out the dredging programme as the necessary permits and licences will have to be obtained. In the meantime, the crisis will get worse with more groundings and more risk to harbour users. The annual accumulation of silt may cause some harbour activities to completely cease within two to three years. Potential future business opportunities and proposed leisure activities and events will not be given a chance without a scheduled commitment to dredge the harbour.For these reasons and others, it is essential that the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine commits now to dredging Howth Harbour as a matter of priority and immediately sets aside funding for this.