New Rosses Point pontoon funding
Rosses Point is to get its long awaited pontoon and access ramp after funding of € 111,750 was allocated.
The money will also allow for a modest increase in the length of the slipway.
And Raghly Harbour is to receive € 26,250 for a pier crane and ancillary work in grants announced by Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Michael Creed.
Deputy Tony McLoughlin said: “In 2015, I was successful in lobbying Minister Simon Coveney for funding for this project in Rosses Point.
“However, at a later date it transpired that the funding could not be drawn down as there was no Foreshore Licence in place for the development.
“This has since been rectified by Sligo County Council and I am delighted that this funding has now been allocated after a long period of negotiations and representations.
“I am firmly of the belief that this funding will be a major boost for tourism and operations in both Raghly Harbour and Rosses Point Pier as it will allow local anglers, and boat operators more access and options when conducting their business.
“A big well done to Pat Carter, Daryl Ewing of Ewings Sea Angling and Boat Charters, the director of services at Sligo County Council, Tom Kilfeather and to the entire local community in Rosses Point and Raghly for working together to ensure these applications were made and supported.”
Welcoming the grant aid Cllr Declan Bree said: “We have been lobbying and campaigning for this project for a number of years and despite the numerous setbacks I am now pleased that we have reached the stage where the department funding has been made available.
“I have to say that local boat owners have been very patient.
“There is currently a real lack of tying up facilities with severe overcrowding at peak times and poor accessible points for embarkation and disembarkation of passengers. The provision of the new pontoon and access ramp will significantly improve the facilities in Rosses Point.
“The total estimated cost of the project is € 149,000 and in this context the County Council will be providing the balance of the funding.” said Cllr Bree.