Éamon Ó Cuív T.D., Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs officially launched a new pier on Clynish Island in Clew Bay, Co Mayo, today, (Monday, 8^th September 2003). This will provide much needed access to the mainland for three generations of the Gavin family, the only residents in the island.

Minister O'Cuiv unveiling his plaque on the new pier

Minister O’Cuiv said that prior to the construction of the pier, the Gavin’s, and in particular, Patrick Gavin Snr who is confined to a wheelchair, had to tackle rough terrain to reach the waters edge to get the boat to the mainland.

"This situation was unacceptable and I had no hesitation in providing the family, who are the only people living on the island, with easy access to the boat that takes them to the mainland for medical attention, schools and shops. I am proud therefore to launch this new pier which was constructed with the assistance of the National Development Plan," he said.

Before the new pier opened, access to the island was difficult for the three generations of the Gavin family who live on the island. Patrick Gallagher Snr, was particularly affected as he is confined to a wheelchair.

In order to make the boat journey to the mainland for regular medical treatment, Mr Gavin had to be carried over the rocky shore in a bucket attached to a tractor to the shoreline and then on a rowing boat, which carried him to the motorboat that travels to the mainland.

Patrick Gavin Jnr, said that they are all delighted with the new pier.

"I was born on Clynish and have lived here all my life, it has been hard but this pier has really made a difference and changed our lives as we can now bring our boat right in to the island."

Minister O’Cuiv said that he and his colleagues in Government were committed to investing in the livelihoods of the many families who live on islands around the country.

"This project was funded jointly by the NDP and the Mayo Council in an effort to improve access for Island and Gaeltacht communities," he said.

For more photographs of the occasion check out Michael Donnelly's photographic record of the occasion.