The future of Buncrana
Pier as the base for the all-weather Lough Swilly
Lifeboat looks bright after a visit by RNLI top
brass yesterday.
RNLI Divisional Inspector, Colin Williams said
recent dredging works to eradicate a build-up of
silt, meant that the boat was currenty unimpeded in
its rescue work.
But he warned that a breakwater for the harbour was
still essential to secure the long-term viability of
the local pier as a base for the 'William Luckin'
all weather vessel.
He said the lifeboat could still be withdrawn if the
breakwater isn't built in due course.
Buncrana RNLI spokesperson, Barry Stevenson, told
InishowenNews.com yesterday that the local crew was
pleased with how yesterday's RNLI inspection went.
"Things are at a delicate stage, but we are quietly
optimistic that we will get the breakwater in due
course," he said.
"The legal documents regarding the foreshore licence
are with the Department of the Environment's
solicitor in Dublin and we hope once all the
necessary procedures have been gone through, we will
get the breakwater we need."
Donegal County Council is awaiting the final
clearance to go ahead with the €600,000 breakwater.
Meanwhile, during yesterday's visit, Mr. Williams
presented local crew members with commendations for
the rescue of a crabbing vessel off Dunaff Head in
storm-force conditions last year.
For full story of the rescue and awards ceremony,
click here |
