The state of many of the piers and slipways across north Mayo are both “a disgrace” and “dangerous”, according to the Cathaoirleach of Ballina, councillor Michael Loftus.
The Crossmolina based councillor, a long time member of the Grainne Uaile Sub Aqua Club, says the popular slipways are covered in dangerous algae and need to be cleaned.
Killala based councillor Jarlath Munnelly called on Mayo County Council to power- hose all slipways in the Ballina Municipal District area at the April meeting of the District and the motion was carried.
However, Council Management explained that the total budget for the Marine in Mayo County Council this year is 49,000 euro, and the cleaning of piers is just part of the demands within that budget.
Cathoairleach Loftus said that in contrast, in the neighbouring local authority of Galway, slipways are inspected by the council every two weeks and regularly maintained.
He spoke to Midwest News Editor Teresa O’Malley about the need to keep the slipways clean….
