Pier extension ‘could save €4m’

THE Government could save over €6m by extending an old pier in Co Kerry instead of building a new one just a mile and a half away, a marine engineer said yesterday.

A new pier near the south Kerry village of Cromane that may cost over €10m is being planned.

However, Dr Peter McCabe, who has studied the area, believes an extension to the current pier could be built for just €3.6m.

Dr McCabe has carried out research work on behalf of fishermen supporting an extension to the old pier.

"I have been in this field for more than 30 years and I believe that if the old pier was extended and dredged it would be the best location," said Dr McCabe, who has also worked for the American Navy.

A pier has to be developed in Cromane because dozens of fishermen have been forced to drive tractors into the sea to land their produce.

"All that is needed is to build two new breakwaters. This pier has been neglected for decades but it does provide the best option," said Mr McCabe.

Several studies, which cost in the region of €400,000, have identified Crow's Point as one of the best sites for the pier, but Dr McCabe believes it's too exposed.

The provision of a new pier was one of Jackie Healy Rae's main promises when he was elected an independent deputy in 1997. After six years, however, including holding the balance of power for five terms the TD hasn't been able to deliver.

"I have been backing this cause since 1997 when I saw fishermen with their tractors submerged in the water," said Mr Healy-Rae.

"There has been a lot of talk about the best site and huge money has been spent already. I think there's no doubt Crow's Point is the place for it."

Mr Healy-Rae said the cost was high but he is confident the pier will be built soon.

"It is high alright and there are worries about it," he admitted.

Marine Minister Dermot Ahern visited the site last month and work on the pier is expected to begin in 2005.

The expected go-ahead for the pier has been welcomed by local fisherman who supported the Crow's Point site.

Local councillor Michael Cahill said meetings have taken place between fishermen and the department to lower the cost of the pier.

"I think everyone accepts that €10 to €12m is too high but we're looking at ways to lower it," he said.

A department spokesperson said last night the project will be decided by the amount of money available.

"We're looking at this again and will have a design in place early in 2004," the spokesperson said.