Department refusal to fund ports’ upkeep a disgrace, says mayor
Tom Sheahan said he intended to lead a deputation to the department, consisting of harbour users, business interests and councillors from the region.
The move was last night welcomed by the chairman of the Baltimore Harbour Users Group, John Kearney.
Members of his organisation protested in the west Cork village last week at the lack of proper facilities in the harbour.
During the protest, public toilets were sealed off owing to their “disgraceful condition”.
Mr Sheahan said he understood harbour users’ frustration.
The Department of Transport is trying to force Cork County Council to take over the running of local ports but will not provide the cash-strapped local authority with the funds it needs to bring facilities into the 21st century.
“It’s a disgrace that the department is refusing to give us any money. We have written to the department on the issue and now I think it’s time to get a deputation (to meet) with the minister to discuss this very serious issue,” Mr Sheahan said.
“The first step needs to be taken by the State, then private investors will follow. Revitalising these harbours properly could potentially result in a major money-spinner,” he said. Mr Kearney said his group fully supported Mr Sheahan’s call for a deputation and meeting.
“The country is flooded with money and yet there are no basic facilities in our harbours. I can’t understand the department because spending some money to improve these facilities would bring in extra tourists.
“It would have the effect of creating more business and this would in turn mean more revenue, in the form of taxation, coming back to the Government,” Mr Kearney said.
Senior officials from Cork County Council are expected to meet with members of the Baltimore Harbour Users Group today to discuss local concerns.
