Commodore's Update - June 2026
Well, summer has arrived with a bang with temperatures reaching record levels. A very welcome bonus for all of us at Howth Yacht Club and a great start to the sailing season.
At last, a long awaited update - I am relieved and delighted to announce good news from the Environmental Protection Agency. They have agreed to issue a license to the Department of the Marine for the harbour dredging project. The envisaged plans for the dredging were discussed with the Department officials last Wednesday at a meeting of the Howth Harbours Users Forum. Preparatory works will begin at the end of this year. I will pass on all updates as soon as I am notified of the scheduled plans or changes which could impact on our members. The issuing of the license is very positive news and I would like to sincerely thank all those who have assisted in getting it granted. The list of those who enabled this result is endless, but the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Howth's Harbourmaster Harold McLoughlin, our fellow harbour users and our local politicians deserve a special mention of our appreciation.
The inaugural Pursuit Yacht Race, held during the Howth Maritime Festival, proved most successful and warrants a big shout out to the organisers and the competitors. I would especially like to welcome the crew of Camino, who represented the European Investment Bank sailing, led by their skipper Alan O’Brien, one of our HYC members. At the prize giving, we exchanged burgees. Hopefully we will see more of this type of representation in the future.
Just to acknowledge that the Yacht Club is not looking her best currently as we shake off a long winter, and there is some extra care and attention needed in certain areas. This wear and tear comes with using the space and reflects the time we spend together here. That said, we are aware of the work that needs to be done and have a dedicated house committee, under Phil Merry. Phil and his team have begun working through the required maintenance, including the annual roof cleaning and inspection, as well as replacing the carpet in the Asgard room. This work will continue over the coming months. I would invite anyone with particular skills that could enable the improvements and repairs to come forward and help out, even if its only for a few hours. Please contact me or Phil Merry if you are available and willing.
With the forthcoming development and changes in the marina, we are being careful with our funds and I would ask all members to be patient and understanding in this matter as we navigate the upcoming projects.
Commodore.