Storm-hit Kilmore Quay sends an SOS

February 1985

Storm-battered Kilmore Quay issues an SOS to the County Council and the State this week as thunderous seas smashed a huge hole in the wall of the East Pier.

There were growing fears that if swift repair work was not carried out, the operation of the local lifeboat, which is launched from an area nearby, could be hit.

On Monday, Cllr Leo Carthy visited the scene to inspect the damage and he immediately reported the problem to the local District Engineer.

‘It is very important that this be attended to immediately because of the very serious problems which could arise,’ said Mr. Carthy. ‘If the launch of the lifeboat was affected, lives could be at risk,’ he added.

Locals are claiming that if proper attention had been paid to the wall in the past, the situation would not be as serious now.

Meanwhile, there is also concern in Kilmore over the dredging operation in the harbour which has come to a halt. And it was revealed this week that the operation had been halted by the Council due to an insurance problem.

Said Cllr Carthy: ‘This is a serious problem and it must be sorted out as soon as possible.’

The dredging work is seen as crucial if the present high level of fishing activities is to continue in Kilmore.