Minister of State Timmy Dooley visited Dunmore East Fishery Harbour Centre on Tuesday, 7 April 2026, as part of an official tour of key fishing ports.
He was joined by Government Chief Whip Mary Butler and Councillor Adam Wyse, Mayor of the Metropolitan District of Waterford.
The delegation was welcomed by Harbour Master Deirdre Lane and departmental officials, who outlined progress on ongoing development works. As regular Afloat readers know, Lane played a leading role in 2025's celebration of women's leadership in the Irish maritime sector.
Earlier this year, €1.9 million was allocated to the harbour under the 2026 Capital Development Programme. The visit included a review of the completed Island Road Steps project and proposed cliff protection works.
“I am delighted to be here today in this beautiful harbour and to witness the progress being made to the harbour’s infrastructure,” Minister Dooley said.
“The Government’s ongoing commitment to investing in Dunmore East is essential to underpin the harbour’s future as one of Ireland’s primary fishery harbour centres.”
The Minister also met local trawler operators and inshore fishers on the pier. Discussions focused on current fishing conditions and sector challenges.
He later held talks with representatives from the Irish South & East Fish Producers Organisation and local aquaculture interests.
The visit continued at Kilmore Quay, where the Minister met fishermen to discuss ongoing pressures facing the industry.
