Fine Gael Dun Laoghaire Deputy, Mary Mitchell O'Connor, has welcomed the approval by the Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council of the report which proposed the upgrade of the slipway at Dalkey Island.

Deputy O'Connor said works will result in a safer environment for sailors, fishermen, tourists and those using the harbour for recreational activities.

She said: "At a meeting of the Council yesterday the Proposed Upgrade to the Slipway at Dalkey Island report was approved, which paves the way for the necessary and long overdue works to be carried out. The proposed development will see the upgrading of the existing slipway and pier on the western end of Dalkey Island, which will bring an end to the difficulties currently being experienced by those using the harbour, especially at low tide.

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"The works will involve the slipway being slabbed to make for safer surface. Steps will also be provided to enable easier movement from the slip to the pier deck; the construction of which is currently very poor. Access steps on the island will also be widened and previously placed mooring rings and handrails, which have corroded, are to be replaced.

"The positioning of a handrail along the northern side of the slip, pier and steps, will also make it easier and safer for people to go about their business, as will a galvanised ladder and a steel pole at the seawards end of the slipway which will act as a navigation aid."

(CD)