Youghal Town Council is to seek a delicate, sorry, delegate meeting with Environment Minister John Gormley to highlight the urgency of a Main Drainage scheme for the town. -Christy Parker Reports

The decision comes amidst warnings by Town Manager Patricia Power that it is crucial for Youghal to “use any opportunity to maintain pressure” to acquire the scheme, given simultaneous demands from other towns in the county and the economic downturn.  

Ms. Power told the September Town Council meeting that Youghal’s case is “being prioritised” by the County Engineer and that the design stage for the estimated €25m scheme had commenced. However, progress is likely to be very difficult.  

Though nobody seemed keen to mention it, the issue has acquired added relevance with the recent loss of Youghal’s blue flag at the Front Strand, Redbarn’s fluttering emblem of excellence having been previously conceded. Ms Power referred to a “very difficult year,” to which “adverse weather” contributed, before turning her attention to the relevant challenge of the drainage scheme.  

Cllr Dave Savage opted to describe the scheme as “crystal critical” for the housing boom “if and when it comes back.” Town Clerk Liam Ryan then summarised that regardless of trying to have buttons pushed directly or otherwise at county or government level, he would recommend the pro-active approach of sending a deputation to meet Minister Gormley. This was unanimously accepted. Just make sure John Mulvihill Snr. doesn’t tag along…!