Clare County Council yesterday unveiled a new plan for the redevelopment of Doolin harbour, a plan expected to end long-running tensions between rival ferry companies.
Two companies, Doolin Ferries and Aran Islands Fast Ferries, operate from portable offices only 18 metres apart at the pier, where there are no bylaws in place to regulate harbour activities.
Last month, two directors of Doolin Ferries, Mr Kevin O'Brien and Mr Bill O'Brien, were committed to jail overnight for breaching a court order aimed at ending the dispute between the two sides.
Yesterday, the council published a blueprint for Doolin harbour that involves the development of a ferry terminal that will be shared by all ferry operators working out of Doolin.
At a briefing session for councillors for the north Clare area yesterday, the members were also informed that draft bylaws have been drawn up to allow the employment of a harbour master to regulate harbour activities from next season.
The draft bylaws are expected to be published shortly to invite submissions from the public.
The plan also includes a €1.5 million proposal to dredge a channel in the harbour that will make the pier accessible to boats all year round.
Customers of Doolin Ferries must now use a currach at low-tide to access ferries bound for the Aran Islands.
The plans for the ferry terminal include communal ticketing facilities, toilets and a cafe.
The proposals yesterday received a broad welcome from councillors.
The director of Doolin Ferries, Mr Bill O'Brien, yesterday welcomed the proposal to dredge the harbour to improve access and to upgrade shore facilities.
County engineer Mr Tom Carey said the council recognised that Doolin was a strategic gateway to the Aran Islands, and created considerable spin-offs for the local tourist economy.
He said bylaws would be in place for the next tourist season in Doolin.
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