Hikers at Errigal deserve better facilities than ‘spending a penny stone age style’ – that’s the view of local election candidate Mick Harkin.
The Aontú candidate for Glenties has called for investment into a permanent toilet structure near the foot of Errigal mountain.
Pre-pandemic, it was estimated there were over 15,000 visitors to Errigal per year. A growing interest in outdoor activities and the new €630,000 path has boosted visitor numbers further.
But no public conveniences at the site leaves many visitors in a predicament when nature calls.
Harkin said: “Down through the decades, tens of thousands of hikers have climbed Donegal’s highest mountain. Yet here we are in the 21st century in Donegal and still expect the massive volume of tourists to endure dire toilet facilities on par with what the first Stone Age settlers experienced.”
He said that a long term strategic plan should be made to maximise the tourist potential of Errigal rather than portable toilets.
“It would be far better to invest in a permanent centre similar to the one at Fanad Lighthouse, incorporating a small tourism shop with tearoom, toilets and possibly basic first aid provision for hill walkers,” he said.
Mr Harkin added: “Also any building must be constructed with local materials to blend into the natural topography, alleviating any environmental concerns and have little impact on the scenery of which Donegal is renowned.”
He added that the enhanced facilities would entice even more visitors from Glenveagh National Park to see the iconic peak.
“Let’s think big,” Harkin said. “Errigal attracts visitors all year round who feed the local economy. They deserve more fitting facilities and Donegal deserves this type of investment. I will continue to press Donegal County Council to improve the distinct lack of toilet amenities and parking spaces at the foot of Errigal.”
A statement from Donegal County Council it is working on a plan to improve the visitor experience in Dunlewey and there are no temporary solutions currently planned.
A spokesperson said: “Donegal County Council working with the local community and other stakeholders are due to shortly commence a Masterplan for Dunlewey and its wider area in relation to the overall visitor experience and its relationship with the local community. The masterplan will also assess the existing visitor management arrangements and make recommendations in relation to the visitor management facilities required to accommodate increasing visitor numbers.
“There are no interim measures proposed at this time, however the matter will be kept under review.”
