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New jet-ski zone at Moville pier
25.07.11
by Caoimhinn Barr, Inishowen Independent
A NEW jet-ski launch zone has been established at
Moville in a bid to reduce the risk of potential
accidents along the scenic Foyle coastline
The shore walk between Greencastle and Moville,
hugely popular with walkers and bathers, has often
proved an area of contention with locals living
along the lough. They have voiced concerns for the
safety of swimmers due to the presence of
motor-powered watercrafts close to the shore.
Last summer a 13-year old girl suffered serious
injuries when her jet ski ploughed onto rocks just
yards from toddlers playing at Glenburney beach. |
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A young teenage girl is treated by
paramedics after her jet ski ploughed onto rocks
near Moville last May. |
The young teen
sustained a broken leg and head injuries when she
lost control of the jet ski, hit rocks and was
thrown several metres into the air. She later made a
full recovery in hospital.
In response to the concerns of elected
representative, Cllr Martin Farren, Donegal County
Council has confirmed this week that it will erect
‘Personal Watercraft Code of Conduct’ safety signs
at Moville pier near Quay Street in the town.
“I think it is vital that jet-skis are only launched
from a designated zone and that they are operated in
keeping with the safety code 300 metres away from
the shore,” he said.
“They are powerful machines and we have to ensure
the safety of children playing on local beaches as a
matter of urgency,” he added.
Speaking following last year’s near-tragedy along
the Moville shoreline local resident Enda Craig
outlined residents’ concerns.
"We're not anti-jet skiing, we just feel that it
should be properly regulated so that our beaches are
safe for everyone to use. They should not be allowed
anywhere near the shore or where people are
swimming, in case someone is decapitated," he
warned.
Donegal County Council last year adopted bye-laws
limiting, and in some cases, banning the use of jet
skis particularly at blue flag beaches. |
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