#CruiseBerth - The Dun Laoghaire Combined Clubs (DLCC) are seeking donations from members to cover some €100,000 in legal costs associated with participation in the oral hearing over the proposed cruise liner terminal for Dun Laoghaire Harbour.
The hearings hosted by An Bord Pleanála, which began on 14 October, ran 10 days over the expected seven-day duration and saw some heated exchanges regarding the controversial plans.
Costs remained broadly in line with original predictions, according to a waterfront Commodore, one of the six member clubs of the DLCC.
However, as a letter of appeal from DLCC convenor Liam Owens underlines, "it was always understood that the clubs had neither the resources nor the mandate to commit to this undertaking" alone, particularly after the four main clubs covered the €20,000 cost of the original objection.
While an application for full costs has been submitted to An Bord Pleanála, it may not be granted – making an appeal for contributions from all harbour users all the more necessary.
Owens writes: "I want you to demonstrate your appreciation by sending a payment to the DLCC now for whatever you can afford. Some individuals among the sailing community have already donated significant sums.
"I believe we have achieved something very significant and I know you love your harbour," he adds
An Bord Pleanála's decision on the matter is due next month.
