Commodore's Update - December 2025

It’s hard to believe, looking at the number of boats on the water last Sunday, that we’re already approaching the end of the year. The winter solstice is nearly upon us — a moment many consider the true turning of the year. The word solstice comes from the Latin sol, meaning “sun,” and sistere, meaning “to stand still,” marking the point when the sun appears to pause in the sky. A fitting time to pause ourselves and reflect on the year gone by.
 
Much has been discussed about the dredging, and I would like to update you on where things stand. Just nine weeks ago, after finally establishing contact with the Environmental Protection Agency, I learned that they had only begun the process of opening the file. However, following representations from our TDs, Tom Brabazon and Cian O’Callaghan, along with Minister Timmy Dooley, we have since been given an indicative EPA decision date of April 2026. Once a decision is reached, the tender process will take approximately nine months, with a potential start date for works around late 2027 — at which point we can expect some level of disruption at HYC.
 
Last week, we received notification from Cian O’Callaghan that the EPA — to whom the Department of the Marine has applied for a dredging licence — has agreed to meet with those most affected by the silting: ourselves, the trawlers, the dry dock and the ferry operators, among others. I am currently working on organising this meeting.
 
Earlier this year, we had hoped to improve access for disabled members and visitors. When we became aware that relevant grants might soon be released, we postponed the work so that we could apply. Those grants are now available, and our application has been submitted.
 
On the catering front, several changes have been underway, and I’m pleased to report that the new menu introduced two weeks ago has been well received. We are also in the process of recruiting a Food and Beverage Manager to help drive further improvements and ensure high standards and consistency.
 
I would encourage all members to come down, enjoy the atmosphere, try the menu and let us know what you think. Your feedback directly shapes the experience we provide, and strong winter bookings are vital to the Club. Use the QR-code on each table to share your feedback — positive or negative — completely anonymously.
 
Looking to the broader picture, there are several other projects on the horizon, in addition to dredging. Last year, consultants specialising in grant applications surveyed members to help identify priorities for future facilities. The top aspirations were clear – 1. Increasing marina berths at 48%, and 2. Opening a gym at 42%.
 
The expansion of marina berths is incorporated into the dredging project, although we are naturally constrained by the current footprint. As for the possibility of adding a gym for members, this remains under active review, and a sub-group will be formed to evaluate the proposal in detail.
 
Following advice from our consultants, we will also be applying to the Large Scale Sport Infrastructure Fund. With grants starting at €600,000, this represents a significant opportunity, and we are optimistic about our application. All financial considerations will be thoroughly reviewed by the Honorary Treasurer and the Finance Committee, who will guide the General Committee and the membership before any commitments are made.
 
I would also like to draw attention to the marina entrance, which many of you will agree has begun to resemble a neglected construction site. We have been advised that it may qualify for a Fingal County Council grant aimed at improving rundown areas, and we intend to apply. If successful, planning permission will be required. Any proposed improvements will, of course, be shared with the membership for review.
 
We also shared details of the upcoming subcriptions in the AGM Notice and noted the increase of 2.5% this year, in line with inflation.  Subscriptions are due in January and further details will be shared by the office next week.
 
I would like to sincerely thank all our volunteers, Flag Officers, the General Committee, and the Finance, Sailing, Dredging, Marina and House Committees, as well as Aideen and the Club staff. The Club simply could not operate without your ongoing commitment and energy.
 
A special word of thanks goes to Lara Jameson, who has served on the General Committee for the past two years and is stepping down to pursue her career. We are grateful for all she has contributed and wish her every success. We welcome Ronan MacDonell to the General Committee.
 
As we near the end of the calendar year — and my first year as your Commodore — I would like to thank each of you for your support, participation and goodwill throughout the year.
 
I wish you all a very happy Christmas and a prosperous New Year.
 
Kevin Monks 
Commodore