Funding approved to pave way for Mayo pier improvement
The Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary, has announced that funding of €157,300 has been approved for Mayo County Council to prepare the preliminary business case for improvements at Roonagh pier.
The minister made the announcement following a meeting with Island representatives in Westport.
The need for improvements at Roonagh pier was identified as a priority action in an Islands Connectivity Report for Clare Island and Inishturk, commissioned by Mayo County Council with funding from the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht.
The funding will enable Mayo County Council to appoint consultant engineers to prepare the preliminary business case, incorporating a strategic assessment, for marine infrastructure improvement options at Roonagh pier, which is the mainland pier used by ferry services to and from Clare Island and Inishturk.
Minister Dara Calleary said: “I have recently visited both Clare Island and Inishturk and I am very well aware of the need for progress at Roonagh and I am delighted to confirm the necessary funding is now in place to procced with preparing the preliminary business case, an important first step for this essential infrastructure development.
“I am also very conscious that there are urgent and necessary upgrades required at both Clare Island and Inishturk piers and I have instructed my officials to continue to work with Mayo County Council in this regard.
“Access between the islands and the mainland is the most fundamental requirement for those living on our offshore islands and is a lifeline for island communities. Access impacts on every aspect of island life, and the Government recognises that physical connectivity depends on the availability of safe harbours both on the islands and on the mainland.”
Welcoming the announcement, the cathaoirleach of Mayo County Council, Councillor Seán Carey said: “This funding announcement for Roonagh pier marks an important step in improving vital infrastructure that supports our island communities.
"Clare Island and Inishturk depend on safe, reliable access to the mainland, and this investment reflects our shared commitment to their long-term sustainability and wellbeing.
"I thank Minister Calleary and his separtment for recognising the urgency of this project and for continuing to support our offshore islands. We look forward to continuing to work closely with our island communities, stakeholders, and government partners as we undertake the development of a business case for improvements at Roonagh pier.”