Make harbour site a national park

I AM delighted Enterprise, Trade and Employment Minister Micheál Martin has described the redevelopment of the Irish Ispat site on Haulbowline as a ‘unique opportunity’.

However, I am dismayed that, in his opinion, this opportunity includes a hotel, apartments and office space.

Cork harbour is a fantastic resource for all people in the region. However, it is under-utilised for leisure pursuits and is also a place with a history that should be preserved. The remaining areas within the harbour that are in State ownership — Haulbowline, Spike Island and the two forts at the harbour mouth — should be declared a national park.