
Local action group opposes urban bath proposal for Dún Laoghaire
Coastal tourism/Islands
Storm damages Bundoran lifeboat station
Coastal tourism/Islands
Dolphin Stranding / Rescue
Coastal tourism/IslandsPolicy rethink required to safeguard rural coastal and island communities
Coastal tourism/IslandsThe Joint-Sub-Committee on Fisheries has called for a change in government policy that will support a diverse range of activities to protect rural coastal and island communities.
In a detailed report launched on Inis Oírr earlier this month, the sub-Committee outlines how 'proactive government support with proportionate and sensible bureautic controls' could ensure that aquaculture, inshore fishing, sea angling, marine tourism and seaweed initiatives could co-exist in these communities.
The majority of boats in the Irish fishing fleet are under 10 metres. Photo Gillian Mills
It advocates an holistic approach to a management structure grounded in 'reliable data' e.g. that might explore how 'heritage licences' could facilitate traditional fishing practices.

Weather warning to stay safe
Coastal tourism/IslandsIrish Water Safety is warning the public that to stay SAFE they must stay away from the edges of waterways during storm conditions that are even more dangerous due to heavy rain, strong gale force winds and high tides.
Fast rising flood water is very powerful and often hides the dangers of exposed drains, exposed manhole covers and submerged objects. No driver or pedestrian should take a chance passing through flooded roadways. Parents should caution children that small flooded streams are very fast and that floodwater hides true water depths. 
Storm conditions at 40ft Sandycove, Co Dublin. Photo Gillian Mills

Dome replacement for crucial Atlantic lighthouse
Coastal tourism/Islands
Agencies join force to create a safety awareness campaign
Coastal tourism/IslandsBIM, the Irish sea-fisheries development agency, and Irish Water Safety, have co-launched a coastal awareness campaign that runs to November 3. Over the next two weeks, adverts to highlight awareness of wearing a Personal Flotation Device (PFD) will air on nine local radio stations around the coast. PFDs maximise the chances of surviving an accident in the water.
The broadcasts will coincide with the installation of the PFD signage being located at piers around the coast.

"BIM is pleased to have partnered with Irish Water Safety in this campaign. While our remits are different, we are united in our commitment to ensuring maximum awareness of the importance of wearing the proper safety equipment while engaged in water-based activities," remarked Michael Keatinge, BIM Fisheries and Training Director.
Rathlin Reminiscences: Its people-Its Stories-Its Places
Coastal tourism/IslandsWendy Scott
On the eve of his 90th birthday, Loughie McQuilkin the oldest Islander on Rathlin, launched his first book, but as he told Inshore Ireland, perhaps not his last.
This personal account of a bygone era was unveiled to a packed McCuaigs Bar on the island along with invited guests and friends, including UTV’s Lesser Spotted Ulster presenter, Joe Mahon.
A few selected excerpts were read from the book by Nicky Sebastian, who along with Loughie’s daughter Margaret, and extended family members Jennifer and John McCurdy, listened to Loughie’s stories and helped to make the book happen. Joe Mahon also read some sections, getting a laugh from the assembled well-wishers.

Council proposes an ‘urban beach’ for Dún Laoghaire
Coastal tourism/IslandsThe public has until 5pm September 27 to comment on a proposed 'floating swimming pool and urban beach' for Dún Laoghaire Harbour. The project is part of Dún Laoghaire Harbour Company's long-term masterplan.
The floating swimming pool will contain heated and treated seawater, designed on a converted river barge, to be located on Berth 1 adjacent to the East Pier.

Artist impression of the floating swimming pool and urban beach
'The barge would also house an 'urban beach' and a second 'urban beach' would be located alongside the floating structure', a statement reads.
"Our aim to complement the existing attractions on the East Pier, and to draw inspiration from the Harbour's rich history," explains Tim Ryan, operations manager with DLHC.
