A funding allocation of €45,000 to repair Allin Quay in Youghal has been welcomed by David Stanton, Fine Gael TD for Cork East. The money is being made available as part of additional funding for harbours announced by Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Simon Coveney TD, this afternoon.

“I am very pleased that €45,000 has been allocated to carry out works to Allin Quay. This allocation covers 75% of the total project cost which will replace the double slipway on the quay. While this is not a very large project, the repaired quay will allow for improved accessibility to the water from Youghal town”, said Deputy Stanton.

Deputy Stanton noted that the work of officials from Local Authorities played a major part in securing the funding from the Department of the Marine. particular Youghal Town Council, in particular, ensured the project remained “shovel ready” by keeping tenders and costings up to date.

He also praised the work of Youghal Town Councillor and Mayor of County Cork Barbara Murray with whom he has worked in tandem in pushing the project.

“As a member of Cork County Council’s Coastal Management Committee, Cllr Murray has continued to support this very worthwhile project. She worked with Youghal Town Council, Cork County Council and also met with Minister Coveney. She was very eager to ensure that this project went ahead as it will prove an asset to marine tourism in Youghal.

“I am very pleased that the Allin Quay refurbishment will now go ahead. I understand from Minister Coveney that the funding will be drawn down before the end of this year so would hope that the project will begin as soon as possible”, concluded Deputy Stanton

Related video below shows the construction of the ‘New’ Jetty at the quay near the ferryslip, Youghal back in the ’70′s etc.  Uploaded by youtuber 22rochey

The Mayor of County Cork, Cllr Barbara Murray, went for a dip in her hometown of Youghal, yesterday (Thursday 23rd August 2012). The mayor said she wanted to show people it was now safe to bathe at the town’s Front Strand.

Pictured below are Cllr Barbara Murray, Mayor of County Cork, with Julie Buckley, Youghal, enjoying Youghal’s Front Strand as the results of the e-coli tests on Youghal beaches look promising. Youghal Front Strand came in at 448, Claycastle 465 and Red Barn 142, which are all classed as sufficient quality. Cllr. Barbara Murray, Mayor of Co. Cork said she was delighted with the results and looks forward to all the beaches being officially opened again. Cork County Council is awaiting the outcome of discussions with the HSE in relation to the swimming notices. All identified beaches will continue to be monitored as per the agreed monitoring calendar with the EPA.

Video by @lensdan

THE FIRST PHASE of a mobility-disabled access boardwalk running from Youghal Front Strand to Claycastle, (395 metres) delivered in partnership with Youghal Town Council and Failte Ireland was officially opened by Minister of State at the Department of Tourism & Sport on Tuesday 24th July 2012.  The boardwalk consists of hardwood timber deck supported on piled foundations, not requiring a railing, and once complete will span 1926 metres, eventually forming part of the National Coastal Walking Route.  The Minister also took the opportunity to officially ‘turn on’ the new 75kw wind turbine at Youghal Aura Leisure Centre.

Speaking at the launch, Minister Ring paid tribute to the vision of Youghal Town Council and its determination to undertake and complete such projects. “When I was here this time last year, I was hugely impressed with not only Youghal’s tourism offering, but the will and determination of the Council and the local community to see this town grow and succeed.  It is wonderful to see plans that were presented to me followed through and executed in full.  With over 180,000 people working  nationally in tourism, this sector is hugely significant in terms of growth in the economy and Youghal is certainly setting about playing its part in getting this country working again”, said the Minister.  The second phase of the development would see the completion of the link between Claycastle and Redbarn to the Quality Hotel and Self Catering Apartments.  The Minister agreed to review the submission to Failte Ireland, agreeing that the project would be of huge benefit to the local economy if completed in full.

Mayor of Youghal, Cllr Michelle Hennessy suggested it shouldn’t be underestimated just what the boardwalk had done for the people of Youghal.  “Not only has it become a major tourist attraction, but it has become a major social gathering for the people of the area, and has brought a new life and vibrancy to this area of the town.  The quality of the boardwalk is evident; – it consists of 395 metres of hardwood timber deck and again is wheelchair accessible.  The Mayor emphasised how important the delivery of Phase Two of the project, saying: “This will have a huge economic impact on the town once complete. The delivery of this Boardwalk shows the commitment of Youghal Town Council to improving the tourism infrastructure of the Town, in partnership with Failte Ireland and is a further step forward in maximising the potential of our natural tourism assets for the economic benefit of business in Youghal” said the Mayor.

In advance of the official opening of the Eco-Boardwalk, the Minister also commended Youghal Town Council in their efforts in securing a €400,000 grant under the Improved Energy and Enhanced Disabled Grant Scheme for Youghal Aura Leisure Centre.  The upgrade works have enabled huge energy savings – including up to a 40% saving in electricity to the Centre from the installation of a 75kw wind turbine.  Currently employing 39 staff, the grant has also facilitated an extension to the existing facility for the disabled, with the addition of a new changing area, a major upgrade of the turnstile system and automatic doors to changing areas.  All of the works completed at the centre serve to enhance the centre’s reputation as both a community resource and first class tourism facility.  Referring to Youghal’s Aura Leisure Centre, the Minister commented:

“This is a hugely substantial amount of money to be granted in this current economic climate and it can only have a positive effect on employment in the town, helping to sustain jobs and hopefully create new ones too.” Said the Minister.

THE FIRST PHASE of a mobility-disabled access boardwalk running from Youghal Front Strand to Claycastle, (395M) delivered in partnership with Youghal Town Council and Failte Ireland was officially opened by Minister of State at the Department of Tourism & Sport on Tuesday 24th July 2012.  The boardwalk consists of hardwood timber deck supported on piled foundations, not requiring a railing, and once complete will span 1926 metres, eventually forming part of the National Coastal Walking Route.  The Minister also took the opportunity to officially ‘turn on’ the new 75kw wind turbine at Youghal Aura Leisure Centre.

Speaking at the launch, Minister Ring paid tribute to the vision of Youghal Town Council and its determination to undertake and complete such projects. “When I was here this time last year, I was hugely impressed with not only Youghal’s tourism offering, but the will and determination of the Council and the local community to see this town grow and succeed.  It is wonderful to see plans that were presented to me followed through and executed in full.  With over 180,000 people working  nationally in tourism, this sector is hugely significant in terms of growth in the economy and Youghal is certainly setting about playing its part in getting this country working again”, said the Minister.  The second phase of the development would see the completion of the link between Claycastle and Redbarn to the Quality Hotel and Self Catering Apartments.  The Minister agreed to review the submission to Failte Ireland, agreeing that the project would be of huge benefit to the local economy if completed in full.

Mayor of Youghal, Cllr Michelle Hennessy suggested it shouldn’t be underestimated just what the boardwalk had done for the people of Youghal.  “Not only has it become a major tourist attraction, but it has become a major social gathering for the people of the area, and has brought a new life and vibrancy to this area of the town.  The quality of the boardwalk is evident; – it consists of 395 metres of hardwood timber deck and again is wheelchair accessible.  The Mayor emphasised how important the delivery of Phase Two of the project, saying: “This will have a huge economic impact on the town once complete. The delivery of this Boardwalk shows the commitment of Youghal Town Council to improving the tourism infrastructure of the Town, in partnership with Failte Ireland and is a further step forward in maximising the potential of our natural tourism assets for the economic benefit of business in Youghal” said the Mayor.

In advance of the official opening of the Eco-Boardwalk, the Minister also commended Youghal Town Council in their efforts in securing a €400,000 grant under the Improved Energy and Enhanced Disabled Grant Scheme for Youghal Aura Leisure Centre.  The upgrade works have enabled huge energy savings – including up to a 40% saving in electricity to the Centre from the installation of a 75kw wind turbine.  Currently employing 39 staff, the grant has also facilitated an extension to the existing facility for the disabled, with the addition of a new changing area, a major upgrade of the turnstile system and automatic doors to changing areas.  All of the works completed at the centre serve to enhance the centre’s reputation as both a community resource and first class tourism facility.  Referring to Youghal’s Aura Leisure Centre, the Minister commented:

“This is a hugely substantial amount of money to be granted in this current economic climate and it can only have a positive effect on employment in the town, helping to sustain jobs and hopefully create new ones too.” Said the Minister.

Click here to enlarge image

THE YOUGHAL BRANCH of the Fine Gael party held a celebratory reception for their colleague Barbara Murray, the newly elected Mayor of County Cork. The special evening to commemorate the occasion was held at The Walter Raleigh Hotel on Monday 16th July 2012.

Glowing tributes were heaped upon Barbara, who is only the second woman to acquire the chain of office as the county’s first citizen. As she was surrounded by family, friends and dignitaries including David Stanton TD., a special commemorative engraved crystal gift was presented to Barbara as a memento of the occasion. Robert Sweetnam, Chairman of the Youghal branch of the Fine Gael Party said ” It’s a wonderful achievement. It will be great for the town and the whole county, Barbara is a tireless worker. We are delighted.”

Article below from the Mayors Office Cork County Council

Mayor of the County of Cork Cllr Barbara Murray

Cllr Barbara Murray was elected Mayor of the County of Cork for the year 2012-13. Eight years into her political life, Youghal Town and Cork County Councillor Barbara Murray is settling into her role as the county’s first citizen. As well as being only the second woman to acquire the chain, the new mayor bridges a gap of over 60 years as the first Youghal representative to take the office since the late Cllr. William J Broderick.

In a brief acceptance the new mayor described her election as a huge honour and the pinnacle of her electoral career.  She thanked her party colleagues for allowing her the opportunity to put herself forward for the role and in particular her proposer, party Chairman and fellow constituent, Cllr Michael Hegarty and her seconder, party secretary, Cllr Pa O’Driscoll. Others to whom she paid tribute were the Independent camp, headed by Cllr. Noel Collins, Youghal and Cork County Council colleague Cllr. Michelle Hennessy of Sinn Fein and Labour Party councillors. She commended outgoing mayor, Cllr. Tim Lombard (FG) for his “tremendous work” and hoped that her tenure would “be somewhere as successful” as that of her predecessor.

Cllr Murray said that the support of her family has “always been unwavering” since and including her days as President of Youghal’s Chamber of Commerce and through various election campaigns.”  She proceeded that “those who know me well will I’m sure concur that I am totally committed to my work as a Councillor.  I am a full-time Councillor, and therefore in a position to give 100% commitment to the office of Mayor.  I am extremely fortunate that my family are at the stage that allows me to do this.

The new mayor then outlined priorities as mayor. “We all know that local authorities are traditionally perceived as being associated with the collection of rates, social housing, water, sewage, dealing with roads etc,” she began. “While all are essential functions, one of my priorities as your newly elected County Mayor is to promote County Cork in the areas of tourism and enterprise.” “Tourism is one of Cork’s finest assets and a key driver of economic growth in the region. The Mayor described Cork County Council as “hugely progressive” in having already taken significant steps in investing in tourism product offerings such as Mallow Castle, Spike Island, Fort Meagher Camden and Mizen Foot Bridge. Cllr. Murray believes these amenities, together with investment in walkways such as the West Cork Rail line and (subject to Failte Ireland match funding) Phase II of Youghal’s eco boardwalk,” would significantly improve the tourism experience for visitors and provide local enhancement for residents to enjoy. The County Council has also launched very imaginative plans for our Regional Park in Ballincollig.

Embrace technology

The Mayor encouraged the council to embrace technology and to integrate it into tourism. As a recent convert to ‘web apps,’ she sees the potential in that technology  and hopes the County Manager supports her initiative to introduce a visitor ‘app’ on tourism in Cork County. It has been suggested to her, she confided, that it be labelled an ‘ABC’ App – All Bout Cork. It would be highly economic and “tie in perfectly with the work of our new tourism development unit who are presently working on a tourism website,” she urged.

Investment and enterprise

Cllr. Murray’s speech then commented on the establishment of the Economic Development Section at County Hall, which she described as a highly successful and most innovative initiative that works in tandem with the Leader Companies and Enterprise Boards in the region.  Its brief has delivered for a wide range of companies and start-ups in the County, she continued who otherwise may not receive funding. She sees it as an area of development that is at an early stage and open to further exploration.

Regarding investment and enterprise, the Mayor believes it “imperative” that the current strong relationship between the IDA and Cork County Council be maintained and nurtured by way of assisting and encouraging multinational investment. Cllr. Murray offered a good example of this partnership working by recalling a recent meeting between the Midleton area members and Sangart, an American Bio Pharma Company looking to locate in Ireland. “They (the American Group) were truly amazed that so many doors were opened to assist them in preparing to locate to Carrigtohill,” she said. The mayor further referred to the Science Park at Curraheen, a Cork County Council initiative of 100 hectares divided into six precincts, as a further collaboration whereby Cork County Council is “working with various partners to create new businesses and jobs.”

New sources of funding

Money is forever a problem these times and Cllr. Murray believes that Cork County Council must look to reinvent in response to the present difficult economic climate. “For all enterprise to succeed, be it private or public, new funding sources have to be found,” she surmised while “existing sources of funding have to be maximized to the limit.” We also need to look at broadening our existing partnerships with the Enterprise Boards, and work even closer with the Business Community through the various Chambers of Commerce,” she observed.

Cllr. Murray referred to “the success of ‘Cork Meet,’ a one-day forum initiative through which Cork and Dublin businesses can look beyond traditional promotional activities and make direct contact with potential Irish clients. “It is also my belief that our Council should continue to support  the various food fairs that Cork County Council have led through previous mayors,” enthused the  mayor, referring specifically to Cllr. Tim Lombard “bringing 16 food companies to Amsterdam with another food fair shortly to be held in France.”

In summary, Cllr Murray said “the few areas that I have covered is but a snapshot of some of the activities that Cork County Council have initiated. As a local authority we have huge areas of responsibility and in turn we as councillors also have a huge workload. We are responsible for the longest road network, second longest coastline and a population of 399,216.  Like previous mayors, I will continue to promote the work of Cork County Council and will strive to raise the profile of this local authority to the level that it rightfully deserves.”

The Mayor can be contacted by email at  mayor@corkcoco.ie or telephone 021 4285457.

YOUGHAL’s COUNCILLOR BARBARA MURRAY has been elected as County Cork’s First Citizen. The Fine Gael Councillor – who’s also a member of Youghal Town Council – was elected Chair of Ireland’s largest local authority at the AGM of Cork County Council this morning, Friday 22nd June 2012. Cllr Murray is only the second ever female County Mayor of Cork. Labour’s Paula Desmond held the office a decade ago.

Fine Gael is by far the largest party on Cork County Council, with 22 of the 48 seats, so Cllr Murray’s election was almost assured. Cllr Murray received the chain of office from her party colleague, outgoing County Mayor, Tim Lombard.

Cllr Murray said recently that she is “at the right stage of my life to do the job and to give it my all. My children are all grown up so I have the time that the job requires”. Best of luck to the new County Mayor for her year in office. Best of luck to Barbara in her new role.

Following the recent collapse of a section of wall at Moll Goggins Corner in Youghal, Cork East Fine Gael TD, David Stanton has contacted the Office of Public Works (OPW) seeking funding for emergency repair works.

“I have written to Minister Brian Hayes who has responsibility for the OPW to make him aware of the urgent need for funding to repair this section of wall.  This is a very serious issue.  I am aware that Cork County Council have applied to the OPW for financing for essential remedial works and I was anxious to express my support for their application.

“This is a very serious issue and while temporary safety measures have been put in place a long term solution is required.  I am hopeful for positive response from the OPW to Cork County Council’s application with funding being made available soon.

Cllr Tara O’ Connell (chairperson of Save Youghal Ambulance Committee) has reported from Fermoy that she has got a firm commitment from the Health Service Executive Ambulance Service that Youghal and East Cork Ambulance’s “HAVE BEEN SAVED!” Tara has reported that we have come out of this Campaign in a better situation than we had first anticipated or could have hoped for!! Full details to follow, but it just goes to show that people power works !! This is fantastic news for the people of Youghal, Tara said that Clr Beecher ( Committee Member) who accompanied Tara to the meeting is also delighted with the news . We would to thank all to all who supported us along the way!

Save Youghal Ambulance Facebook Page Reads ( 25th May 2012 – 11am):

Hi All, To say that I am over the moon is an understatement!! Yes Our Ambulance is saved and it is permanently!!! Over the next few weeks we will have 2 Ambulances and a first response car on duty 24/7, an extra ambulance will be available to help with any teething problems that might arise with the adjustment to new working hours as on call is now a thing of the past Ambulance crew will be will be as shift work from now on , which will improve the response times and eliminate fatigue issues.

During this initial period the new system will be closely monitored to work out any issues that may arise. After this time We will have 2 Ambulances and the first response car ON A PERMANENT BASIS. I asked that this be clarified as I was to say the least in shock, it was confirmed!! At no stage will the east Cork area have less then 2 Ambulances and the car!! In fact things are better then we hoped for as Youghal has been designated as the central hub of operations for strategic deployment in East Cork. 3 extra paramedics are also being allocated to the area More improvements are to follow such as GPS systems and intermediary care vehicles.

I would like to thank every who supported us throughout the campaign, people power works!!!! A big thank to each member of the Committee who put so much time and effort in to this very important issue. To all our Public Representatives, David Stanton, Sandra Mclellan Barbara Murray and to Sean Sherlock who had to listen to my constant nagging, and who arranged all the meeting between the Committee and the HSE a very grateful thank you to all!! To all those who doubted us and told us we were fighting a losing battle, count yourselves luck that we didn’t listen!! This is fantastic news for Youghal and I am so happy to have been part of it.

To our fantastic Ambulance Crew, keep up the good work we are all very Grateful and proud of the work you do! If anyone has any further questions about the new service do not hesitate to contact me!!!! Hugh Sigh of relief !!! Tara O’Connell Chairperson of the SAVED Youghal Ambulance Committee!

Sandra McLellan TD said: “Great news, Siptu have confirmed with my office that we are to keep our Ambulance service. Youghal will have one ambulance and one car 24/7 . There will also be an extra ambulance for a couple
of weeks to cover shortfall. However this will all be reviewed in a months time.” –  Mon, May 21, 2012

See below just some of the photo and video coverage of the Save Youghal Ambulance campaign on Youghalonline.com

Video: Thanks to Kieran McCarthy | Shane Supple

County Council Wants Urgent Funding To Restore Youghal Sea Wall
By Christy Parker

CORK COUNTY COUNCIL is to seek urgent funding to restore a section of sea wall in Youghal that collapsed 40 feet onto rocks due to coastal erosion. The 15-yard section lies within a 50 yard stretch between Youghal lighthouse and Moll Goggin’s Corner and borders the public footpath leading to the front strand.

The sudden collapse, at about 2 pm last Wednesday (9th May 2012), left a gaping hole in the four foot high wall that also forms part of the Slí na Sláinte walking trail. Gardaí and council staff raced to the scene and protective wire fencing was quickly erected. Youghal Town Clerk Liam Ryan expressed relief that nobody had been “injured or even killed.”

Senior Executive Engineer at Cork County Council, Dave Clarke, says a report by JODA Engineering Consultants, Cork will include assessment of the on-going stability of the adjacent road and will be forwarded with an application for emergency funding to the OPW. “Given the location, the potential for further deterioration and the threat to public safety, we are treating this as a matter of urgency and would hope to issue a contract to address the immediate problem very soon,” he says.

The collapse reflects an accelerating threat of structural deterioration in the scenic, windswept area. Two extended viewing balconies have also been fenced off in recent years amidst evidence of subsidence.

Following the closure of the second viewing balcony in 2009, a survey commissioned by Cork County Council concluded that a new retaining wall be installed, at an estimated cost of €180,000.

Mr. Clarke was unable  to cite costing for the immediate work but confirmed that the county council would be renewing funding applications with regard to erosion in the general vicinity.

An emergency pathway has been installed at the scene and while two–way traffic remains in force, “this is under constant review,”  says Mr. Clarke. He also strongly advises against accessing the rocks to view the collapse from beneath. “It remains an area prone to further collapse and there is also the danger of being cut off by a fast incoming tide,” he concluded.

A portion of the wall at the Lighthouse Hill, Youghal, collapsed and fell onto the rocks today ( Wednesday 9th May 2012). Within minutes Gardai and council officials arrived at the scene and temporarily secured the area with Harris fencing and warning cones. The incident happened at about 2pm close to Moll Goggin’s corner. The pavement is the main pedestrian route both to and from the strand area, it is also part of the popular Sli na Slainte walking route and a regular run for joggers.

Speaking on Youghal local radio CRY 104fm Youghal Town Clerk Liam Ryan said, “The Gardai notified the town hall and then we arrived on scene straight away, we assessed the situation and started to close off the area using cones and Harris fencing, now the county council are here and they have taken over. It’s now in their ball park. It’s a regional road so it’s their responsibility. I am just very happy that nobody got injured that is the most important thing.  Walls can be rebuilt and footpaths can be rebuilt as long as nobody got injured.  Now it’s an opportunity for the Cork County Council to obtain the necessary funding to do a proper structural job on the wall and the roadway”

Also speaking to CRY 104fm, Youghal town and Cork County Councillor Barbara Murray, who was also promptly at the dangerous scene said, “It is, I must admit it, is a huge height. Standing at the gaping hole in the wall its pretty frightening as it is quite a height up anybody passing would feel quite vulnerable.  They will fence it off but this is something I brought to the attention of the council over 2 years ago as a result of that, a company called JOBA did a structural report on the condition of the area and at that time said there was no immediate danger but obviously this has changed, things have deteriorated substantially since then and its going to put us in a situation that now rather than looking for funding for an ordinary job its now emergency funding, it has to be done” Click here for previous report which was highlighted on Youghalonline by Barbara Murray

Sean Sherlock TD Minister of State, Department of Enterprise, Jobs & Innovation and Department of Education & Skills with responsibility for Research & Innovation who was in town at a schools presentation ceremony along with his colleague local councillor Tara O’Connell also arrived to access the dangerous wall collapse. Another local Councillor Mary Linehan Foley who was also at the scene had prophetically warned “Its getting worse” two years ago. Click here for more on this story previously highlighted on Youghalonline.