Rowers fear Shannon seaplane service could ‘cause deaths’
The long-established St Michael’s Rowing Club, located on the opposite side of the river bank from the proposed seaplane base, warned it may have to relocate upriver to O’Brien’s Bridge for fear of injury, or death, to its members.
Harbour Flights Ireland has received planning permission from Limerick City Council to install floating pontoons, an access gateway, mooring anchors and other infrastructure for the berthing of a seaplane.
The seaplane will make sight-seeing flights to Foynes, Galway and the Aran Islands.
St Michael’s Rowing Club, which dates back 110 years, has appealed the decision to An Bord Pleanála, claiming the new seaplane venture would have “horrendous” consequences for rowers using a stretch of river near its clubhouse and O’Callaghan Strand.
Club president Pierce McGann has told the appeals board the seaplane project was flawed and would have consequences for the sport of rowing on the Shannon.
His club would have no option, he said, but to move totally to O’Brien’s Bridge.
Emelyn Heaps of Harbour Air Ireland has rejected the claims made in the objection and criticised the club for not engaging with them.
Mr McGann said their club, with more than 300 members, provides a vital outlet for youth from all parts of the city. He said if they had to share the same stretch of river with a seaplane operation it could result in serious injury or possible death to river users.
Mr McGann said: “Safety on the river is paramount and Limerick City Council should not be granting permission for facilities which result in activities which will be carried outside its jurisdiction.”
This decision by Limerick City Council has serious potential to undermine the safety of upwards of 80 oars people who regularly use the same stretch of river as that which HFI now wants to operate in.”
Mr Heaps, however, said he was surprised and amazed at the rowing club’s appeal to An Bord Pleanala and said it could cost jobs and investment.
