The issue of derelict boats in Bunbeg pier has been raised after a dilapidated boat sank.
Fortunately, no one was onboard during the incident. The boat had been taking in water for a period of time before sinking during the night.
Although a great effort was made by locals to save the boat, it remains at the bottom of the water.
Cllr Micheal Cholm Mac Giolla Easbuig told Donegal Daily that there are a number of boats which have been left abandoned at the pier for years, and hopes that the sinking of this boat will spur the Council on to work with the owners of the vessels, and the fishermen who use the pier regularly.
“There are a number of abandoned boats lying there for a long time which haven’t been used in years and will never see the ocean again.
“There are a number of pleasure boats which also need to be looked at with regards to where they’re tied up. There are other boats there that only go out once or twice every few years, and these should be pulled up on the slip.
“The new Harbour Master will hopefully be in place very shortly and I have asked that Bunbeg comes under the remit of the new Harbour Master. We’re lucky we have a big long harbour at Bunbeg.
“All of these issues must be addressed in consultation with the fishermen and those who use the pier on a regular basis.
“The Council need to consider fees at the harbour like there is in the majority of working harbours around Ireland.
“It’s really important that we clean up and provide the facilities that are needed to allow people to get on with their daily work at Bunbeg, and Bunbeg doesn’t become a dumping group.
“I believe we should provide as much as possible, considering how the government have failed the fishing community and have continued to fail them. The priority should be given to the fishermen.
“With the Wild Atlantic Way tourism is becoming a big thing for our piers and harbours, so we need to take this on board. Tourism must be a benefit to all, not just a small minority. With this in mind, the Council must take a holistic approach to it.”
“The Council must work alongside the fishermen of the area who make a living from the pier, and those who own the boats in resolving this issue.”
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