Funding To Clear New Ross Marina of Debris

This follows on from work carried out by BIM since 2005, which has resulted in over 150 tonnes of old nets being recycled. The pilot project, which sees an overall investment of almost €66,000, is being co-ordinated by BIM, the Irish Sea Fisheries Board, New Ross Town Council, Wexford County Council Green Marine, Geoline Ltd and Inland and coastal Marina Systems ltd (ICMS). The grant-aid is being provided under the Marine Environment Protection Measure, funded by the exchequer and European Fisheries Fund. The accumulation of debris around the 'Three Sisters' Marina, located below O'Hanrahan Bridge has historically caused numerous problems for river traffic, potential damage to the Marina infrastructure as well as being an eye-sore for locals and tourists. This innovative project will see discarded fishing gear that was previously taken to landfill sites, being recycled to create a 'debris deflector' on the River Barrow at New Ross, which will deflect logs and other debris away from the Marina.

Speaking at the announcement of the funding, Minister Connick thanked all the parties involved in bringing this scientifically challenging project to bear. He said, "I am delighted to be able to confirm the funding for this creative and environmentally effective solution to a long-standing problem of discarded nets in the fishing industry. The delivery of this project will also have many positive knock-on effects for all users of New Ross Marina and will play a major role in restoring the areas natural beauty."

The aim of the Marine Environment Protection Scheme, under which the project is funded, is to maintain healthy fish stocks while simultaneously developing the marine environment.