By Dan Walsh at the May meeting of Wexford County Council
Calls to ensure that the proposed sub-sea fibre optic cable system at the 12 nautical mile limit to the extent of the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) off the coast of Kilmore Quay be safe for trawlers and fishermen was voiced at today’s (Monday) monthly meeting of Wexford County Council held at Council Chamber, County Hall.
Cllr Jim Codd called for assurances of no interference to the traditional fishing grounds and said; “it would appear not to be the case.”
“It needs to be so deep that trawlers can get over them and the effect on fisherman,” while Cllr AoifeRose O’Brien felt “there is no room for error.”
Executive Planner Diarmuid Houston pointed out that the project had already got planning – “it is outside the foreshore area and outside the planning area” – and a cable twenty years old is being replaced.
The application relates to an area starting 12 nautical miles out to sea and covers the maritime area designated as Ireland’s EEZ and the cable will continue to Pembrokeshire in the UK.
Planning has been granted by Wexford County Council for a development consisting of a cable duct and all associated works above and below the ground on a site of 0.02ha located at Crossfarnogue Beach, Kilmore Quay.
It was stated that the location of the cable will have very limited impact on County Wexford. The onshore element of the development has been agreed, and the applicant, who has been working with the Council, has supported local community projects to the value of €125,000.
“The development is considered to comply with the objectives of the County Development Plan 2022-2028 which seeks to maximise the economic benefits of the marine area and promote the international telecommunications connectivity,” said Chief Executive Wexford County Council Eddie Taaffe, who added; “The proposal will provide essential national infrastructure and Wexford County Council welcomes this investment.”
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