Menu

Ireland's sailing, boating & maritime magazine

Displaying items by tag: Architect Bill Hastings

#DALKEY ISLAND PROSPECT -With only days left until the public consultation closes on an application for oil and gas exploration off Dalkey Island, Co. Dublin, locals are grappling with the potential risks and benefits of such a development following last Tuesday's community meeting held in the south-side suburb.

Providence Resources has applied for a foreshore licence to search for oil or gas about 6km out to sea off Dalkey Island on the Kish Bank Basin. The licence would involve a two-week seismic survey and subsequent drilling of a single exploration well over one or two months. The company said it was at a "relatively early stage" and if oil or gas were discovered it would need further licencing.

Of the 300 capacity audience that attended the evening meeting in Dalkey Town Hall, the vast majority including Tánaiste Eamon Gilmore, supported a call for a public inquiry into the licence before it is granted.

Architect Bill Hastings, who chaired the information meeting, was concerned that locally the issue could divide the community and many people pointed out that "it was not just a Dalkey issue but one for all of Dublin Bay". To read more on a report  in today's The Irish Times click HERE.

Published in Coastal Notes

About Foyle Port

Foyle Port, located in the North West region of Northern Ireland, is estimated to handle around 2 million tonnes of cargo per year, with a trade value of approximately £1 billion. The port plays a crucial role in facilitating the import of essential agri-products, supporting around 20,000 farms in the region, as well as various local business sectors such as fuel/oil and construction industries. The organisation supports an estimated 1000 direct and indirect jobs.

Originally located in the bustling heart of Derry City, the Commissioners relocated the port to its current deep-water location at Lisahally in 1993. The terminal boasts an impressive 440 metres of quay and can accommodate large vessels of up to 62,000 DWT. Foyle Port is primarily a bulk port and a significant importer of essential commodities such as oil, coal, animal feed, fertiliser, and plywood, all of which are vital for the North West rural region.

Since 2003, the organisation has experienced significant growth, doubling both turnover and profit and attracting approximately £100 million of inward investment to the region. This investment has supported projects, including a fertiliser plant, an oil tank farm, and a biomass power station.

Established by Act of Parliament in 1854, the Londonderry Port & Harbour Commissioners is an independent statutory authority with a duty to develop, maintain and operate to the highest standards of efficiency, financial prudence, environmental awareness, safety, and security. The Port is independent of the Government and is self-financing. All financial surpluses are reinvested in the business for the benefit of future generations of stakeholders.