Mayo island earmarked for two major marine projects

The Minister for Agriculture and Marine Charlie McConalogue has visited two piers on Achill Island where two very important marine projects are proposed.

There are plans to upgrade facilities at Purteen Harbour and undertake repairs of weather damage.

Originally built in the 1800s, Purteen is a working fishing and leisure harbour.

There are also plans to erect a floating seasonal pontoon at Dugort Pier to assist local boat operators and develop an adventure blue way in the area.

It is currently used for tourism and boat trips to view the stunning Croaghaun sea cliffs.

The minister was accompanied on his visit by Senator Lisa Chambers and local Councillor Paul McNamara.

Senator Chambers said she looking forward to the plans being brought to fruition within the coming years and thanked the minister for his support.

Councillor McNamara has been campaigning for the investment for a number of years.

A plan was mooted a number of years ago to establish a summer ferry crossing of Blacksod Bay between Dugort and Erris to facilitate tourists to the region as well as providing a tourism attraction.

There is currently a ferry service between Darby's Point at Cloughmore and Clare Island.