“We are now facing an unacceptable situation where overcrowding is compromising the safety of vessels and crew.”

Drogheda Rural Independent Councillor Declan Power has called for urgent and coordinated action to address growing safety, management, and enforcement concerns at Clogherhead Harbour – a key economic and recreational hub for County Louth.

Speaking at the July meeting of Louth County Council, Cllr. Power, who represents the Clogherhead area, warned that the current operational model of the harbour is “unsustainable” and poses serious risks to both users and the local fishing industry.

“Clogherhead Harbour is a critical working harbour that supports local livelihoods and the coastal economy,” he stated. “However, we are now facing an unacceptable situation where overcrowding is compromising the safety of vessels and crew. In some cases, fishing boats are being forced to remain at sea in hazardous conditions due to a lack of safe access within the harbour.”

Cllr. Power highlighted that boats are currently being rafted up to eight and even ten vessels deep – many of which are left unattended for extended periods. This, he argued, presents not only logistical issues but significant safety hazards.

“What we have is a situation with no fair or enforceable system of access. Compliant users who pay their dues and meet safety requirements are being penalised, while others continue to benefit from facilities without any accountability,” he said. “Effectively, the harbour is being run like a public car park with no enforcement – where some pay and others don’t.”

In his address to the Council, Cllr. Power outlined four key measures that he believes must be urgently implemented:

1. A formal meeting between the Harbourmaster and local fishing representatives to directly address operational concerns;
2. A review of the Harbourmaster’s working hours and enforcement capabilities to ensure adequate management;
3. Introduction of a regulated access and authorisation system for all trawlers and vessels;
4. Robust enforcement of outstanding harbour dues, fines, insurance compliance, and unauthorised docking.

“Clogherhead has become a ‘soft target’,” he said. “Some vessels are deliberately choosing to berth here rather than in better-regulated harbours because they know enforcement is weak or non-existent. This situation cannot be allowed to continue.”

Cllr. Power also emphasised that the issues at Clogherhead go beyond fishing. As a growing visitor destination and valued community space, the harbour requires proper investment, ongoing maintenance, and responsible oversight.

“This is ultimately about health and safety, fairness, and the proper management of a public asset. Clogherhead Harbour must be supported to operate in a structured, safe, and sustainable way – for the benefit of our fishing families, the tourism sector, and the wider coastal community.”

David Hanratty, Director of Operations and Environmental Delivery said, "We are aware of the ongoing issues at Clogherhead Harbour and will endeavour to meet with the fishermen to deal with their concerns as soon as possible."