Members Section

It is great to be able to finally share with you an update that I received last Friday from Timmy Dooley TD, Minister of State for the Marine. In his letter, the Minister outlines that the Department expects to be in a position to award a contract for the dredging of the harbour in late 2026.

 

Subject to agreement on work programmes with the successful contractor, it is expected that the project will commence with the construction of a bund in the West Pier area to hold the dredged material, which will go on to form the reclamation area. This work is expected to take place in early 2027.

 

It is then likely that the dredging works themselves will commence in summer 2027, starting at the points furthest south in the harbour.

 

The Minister also stated that these timelines will be subject to the programmes tendered by the contractors, and that Department officials will continue to liaise with HYC and all harbour stakeholders throughout the project.

 

I would like to thank the Minister and his officials for engaging with us and for keeping Howth Yacht Club updated on the progress of the works. It is very much appreciated.

 

I would also encourage all boat owners who have not yet completed the Boat Owners Survey to do so as soon as possible. This survey is important to ensure that all boat owners have their voices heard regarding where they would like their boats stored during the dredging period, and so that we can explore the most appropriate options accordingly.

 

While many of us take the freedom and enjoyment of sailing and boating for granted, there are those who are unable to do so without restrictions due to disability. With this in mind, we recently reached out to Irish Sailing in an effort to help anyone interested in these activities fulfil their ambitions in a safe, welcoming and inclusive environment. Following a subsequent meeting, Howth Yacht Club has agreed to embrace the Sailing for All - Irish Sailing Sailability Programme, which is founded on the belief that everyone should have the opportunity to experience the freedom and joy of being on the water. The programme supports clubs in creating more opportunities for people of all abilities to participate in sailing and boating activities.

 

This is a natural progression for HYC. Having been honoured as Fingal Sports Inclusion Club of the Year 2026, Howth Yacht Club has the knowledge, experience and support required to contribute meaningfully to this very worthwhile endeavour.

 

Consequently, we are in the process of establishing a Sailability Committee, and all are welcome to participate, either by giving their time, expertise or financial support. Please contact me, the Commodore, or the HYC office if you would like to learn more about what is involved, or if there is any way that we can assist you in becoming involved.

 

In the last week of August we held the HYC Dinghy regatta which was very successful with 58 entries. It was a great event and enjoyed by all. Thanks to those who organised and participated in the regatta. The age range for the event was impressive, as the youngest participant was 7 and the eldest 77. It’s wonderful to see all sides of our community represented.

 

Last Friday, we had a wonderful turnout for the farewell of our long-standing Bar Manager of 13 years, Frank Kelly, as he took his leave from Howth Yacht Club. A large gathering of members and staff came together to wish Frank every success and happiness in the next stage of his life. We will miss Frank greatly, but the spirit and commitment he showed throughout his long tenure will live on ad infinitum.

 

On a final note, I would like to express my appreciation for your continued support of HYC, and I look forward to meeting those who sign up to help with the Sailability project.

 

Kevin Monks,

 

Commodore