Waterford TD writes to minister over cruise ship cancellation
Deputy McGuinness's call follows the cancellation of 700 passengers who were scheduled to land from the Seven Seas Grandeur on Wednesday
Waterford TD Conor McGuinness has written to the Minister for Transport calling for engagement on the development of a permanent cruise ship berthing infrastructure.
His call follows the cancellation of 700 passengers who were scheduled to land from the Seven Seas Grandeur on Wednesday.
Deputy McGuinness said that the cancellation in Dunmore East due to weather and sea conditions highlights the need for permanent infrastructure.
“Businesses across Waterford had prepared for hundreds of visitors today, only for the visit to be cancelled at the last minute. This is a reminder of the cost of failing to invest in the infrastructure Waterford needs.
“Successive governments shelved long-standing plans to expand Dunmore East Harbour following the economic crash, and today we are seeing the consequences. It is time for a serious examination of how we can provide suitable berthing facilities for cruise ships, whether through the North Quays development or elsewhere within the Waterford Estuary.
“I have written to the Minister for Transport and Waterford City and County Council, calling for engagement with all relevant stakeholders to explore the delivery of permanent cruise ship berthing infrastructure.
“Waterford has enormous tourism potential. We should be making it easier for visitors to come ashore, not losing valuable business because we lack the infrastructure to accommodate them,” said Deputy McGuinness.
