Inishkea pier upgrade and toilet facilities need to be addressed by Mayo council

PIER access and toilet facilities on Inishkea are two matters that need to be addressed by Mayo County Council.

Councillor Gerry Coyle said the Inishkea islands are a huge asset for the north Mayo area, with a huge amount of visitors, and the pier needs to be looked at.

Toilets, too, were flagged by Councillor Sean Carey, given the numbers visiting the location.

Achill's Councillor Paul McNamara supported a pier upgrade for Inishkea, saying it's a big attraction for day trips both from Belmullet and Achill.

He noted how the pontoon installed at Dugort during the summer had brought great benefits, including for boat trips between there and Blacksod and also private operators.

Head of marine Michael O'Boyle said there is a huge blue amenity between Achill, Blacksod and Inishkea.

In relation to Inishkea, a lot of work has been done with landowners, and also NPWS and Bord Fáilte, so there is good, sustainable development, he said.

Discussions are also taking place about developing toilet amenities at Blacksod.

Councillor Carey felt there was great potential for a ferry between Achill and Blacksod and he suggested its feasibility be looked at.