A West Cork boatyard has announced a major investment aimed at improving safety and increasing service capacity for marine users.
Oldcourt Boats Ltd has acquired a heavy-duty telehandler with a remote-operated man basket to support repair and maintenance work at height.
The purchase was supported by a €67,000 grant under the Fisheries Local Action Group South West Scheme.
The scheme is part of the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund and is co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union.
It is administered by Bord Iascaigh Mhara.
Oldcourt Boatyard services fishing vessels, pleasure craft and commercial operators, with customers from Europe, Africa and the United States.
Founded in the 1970s by shipbuilder Donal O’Donovan, the family-run yard began by building fishing vessels up to 40 feet.
In the late 1980s, the business shifted towards servicing the local fishing fleet and developed a purpose-built boatyard on the River Ilen.
The facility expanded again in the 1990s to meet demand from the growing leisure boating sector.
Today, the yard services fishing vessels, pleasure craft and commercial operators, with customers from Europe, Africa and the United States.
Managing director Don O’Donovan said the new equipment marks a significant step forward.
“The machine will be used for mast work, vessel repairs, inspections and maintenance of our 90-ton boat lift,” he said.
“The remote-control basket allows more precise and secure handling when working on tall or awkward structures.”
The investment followed feedback from customers who highlighted delays and safety issues linked to scaffolding.
The new telehandler will reduce the need for scaffolding and speed up routine repairs and inspections.
It will also provide a modern platform for electricians, riggers and marine engineers working at the yard.
Mr O’Donovan said the upgrade improves competitiveness as marine tourism and cruising continue to grow.
“This allows faster and safer mast work, with quicker turnaround times for visiting vessels,” he said.
The investment is expected to create two full-time equivalent jobs and secure five existing roles.
The telehandler features a more efficient diesel engine, supporting efforts to reduce emissions.
Oldcourt Boats said it has already cut emissions by 5% since 2018 through equipment upgrades.
