Concern has been expressed in West Cork about the effect of a proposed reduction in power in the Fastnet Rock Light after the Commissioners of Irish Lights have completed work at the famous Lighthouse during 2018 and 2019.
In a statement issued today, the Commissioners comment: “This is part of a planned programme of continuous maintenance, upkeep and modernisation of our coastal services to the mariner. The work consists of structural repairs which are necessary to ensure the metal lantern room is properly secured to the granite tower, and modernisation of the light source to an energy efficient rotating LED lantern.
When these works are completed the outward appearance of the Fastnet will be unchanged. The work will improve our environmental impact by significantly reducing the need for diesel and generators and by removing all mercury from the station. The range of the light will reduce from 27 to 18 Nautical miles.”
However, Irish Lights understands that the Fastnet is important, not only as an Aid to Navigation, but as part of the heritage of the area and as a tourism asset.
In order to provide information on the works to the West Cork community, Irish Lights are holding a Public Information Meeting at Schull Sailing Centre on Monday 5th March at 1900hrs, to which anyone with any concerns whatsoever about the future of the Fastnet Rock Lighthouse is invited.
