Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, Mr Éamon Ó Cuiv marked the commencement of work on the Caladh Mór Sheltered Harbour Development Project on Inis Meaín with the traditional turning the sod ceremony this summer.

(left-right): Mr. Finn Lyden (SIAC Construction), Ms Sinéad Henry (RPS Consulting Engineers), Minister Éamon Ó Cuiv, Mr. Darren McCormack (RPS Consulting Engineers), Mr. John Geoghegan (SIAC Construction). Image 2 shows Inis Meaín.

Representatives from Galway County Council, Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources, RPS Consulting Engineers and SIAC Construction Limited were present for the ceremony.

Inis Meaín is the middle of the three Aran Islands, between Inis Mor and Inis Oirr and is home to approximately 200 Islanders.

The €14M Caladh Mor Sheltered Harbour Development includes the removal of approximately 34,000m³ of limestone rock to form a sheltered basin to a depth of -3.0m Chart Datum. A precast concrete caisson pier will be constructed and protected with concrete armour units, increasing the berthing capacity of the Island. Also, a 125m long offshore breakwater will be constructed to provide sheltered berthing facilities for those using the harbour. The new development will provide a sheltered harbour for vessels and will encourage visitation by leisure craft, boosting tourism on the Island.

RPS Consulting Engineers were responsible for seeing the project through its various stages including carrying out an EIS, preliminary design, contract documentation and administration.  RPS Consulting Engineers are the Lead Consultant on the project and are currently supervising the project onsite

For more information please contact:
RPS Consulting Engineers, Belfast (Elmwood House)
T: 028 9066 7914