Sir, – The proposal to have giant cruise liners in Dun Laoghaire harbour has been presented as a necessity "in view of the declining importance of ferry traffic". Really? Irish Ferries and Stena Line operate eight ferry sailings per day, between them, to Holyhead, out of Dublin Port, including those of the giant Ulysses. In addition, there are 18 sailings a week to Liverpool.
Meanwhile, an existing ferry terminal in Dún Laoghaire has lain idle for some time. The ferry service, operating for about 40 years, ended, without any sign of a revival. This demise possibly had its roots in customer dissatisfaction caused by delays in accessing and exiting the port area, especially via the coal harbour bridge. Until these difficulties are addressed, operators are likely to stay away.
In view of the ferry debacle, can Dún Laoghaire harbour then be deemed fit to compete for cruise liner business with Dublin Port, a few miles away? Fergal McLoughlin (August 10th) thinks not. I agree. And this is not taking into account competition from the traditional liner ports-of-call of Cobh and Belfast.
Dublin Port handles most of the freight traffic of this land, as well as thriving ferry and cruise line operations, and has the infrastructure and revenue resources to do so. It seems also that investment of more than €200 million is to be made in extending these facilities.
Against this we are told that the projected capital costs for cruise liners in Dún Laoghaire harbour is about €18 million to €20 million. Er, yes. And let’s not talk about the ongoing running and maintenance costs. Does anyone know what the budget covers? Is there adequate provision for the necessary works to prevent inevitable destruction of a large section of the east pier and of the lighthouse on the west pier due to the huge displacement of water by these enormous vessels? Does the budget cover only cost of works within the area of the harbour company’s jurisdiction? These are many more unanswered questions.
The approach channel to the proposed turning circle at the harbour mouth (mostly outside the remit of the harbour company) will run roughly parallel to the coast and will terminate almost exactly due north of Bullock Harbour, about 1½ miles offshore. There must be concerns about the impact of these vessels upon the foreshore, which includes the cherished amenities of Sandycove and Bullock harbours and the Forty Foot, as well as any future development by the local authority of the area between the derelict public baths and the east pier. The direction by which the approach channel is entered could also affect Dalkey Island and Coliemore harbour and have repercussions in Killiney Bay.
The entire coastline between Dún Laoghaire and Bray harbours is one of such scenic beauty and amenity value as to make it a national asset. It is the duty of all citizens and public representatives to ensure its preservation. – Yours, etc,
TOM CLEAR,
Monkstown, Co Dublin.