Steps to address year-round access at Roonagh Pier in west Mayo

STEPS are being taken to address the safe year-round landing of boats at Roonagh Pier, outside Louisburgh, in a major infrastructural project.

The pier services Clare Island and Inishturk and development plans are moving into the first strategic development and business case stage, following a study.

Local Councillor Chris Maxwell questioned Mayo County Council's head of marine, Michael O'Boyle, saying there was supposed to be a €50 million development at Roonagh, with a barrier outside to make it safe for boats to land all year round.

It was vital the development goes ahead so that the islands can function, both from a tourism and every day community life point of view, he said.

Mr. O'Boyle explained a study has been done on island infrastructure and the focus now is on Roonagh and moving it on the strategic development planning and business planning stage.

It's hoped to have this done by the middle of next year, and then it's a government decision to move on to design stage.

Each of the stages will involve consultations with the islands and stakeholders, he added.