A new plan for Portlick, which will enhance both the current facilities and look to provide proper and safe access to the water was mooted by Fine Gael Councillor, John Dolan, at a recent sitting of Athlone-Moate Municipal District.
Addressing the Council Chamber, Cllr. Dolan stated that Portlick was a "jewel in the crown" and boasted facilities which attracted many visitors to the location.
"Portlick is a unique place and it is incumbent on us, as a local authority, to assist with the improvement of facilities at the location.
"We must listen to needs of those who use the facilities within Portlick and strive to obtain national funding, if possible, for the enhancement of this popular amenity.
"I am aware that a committee has been formed, the aim of which is to devise a plan which will best suit Portlick to accommodate anglers, swimmers, use of horses and all activities which primarily occur in Portlick and I would like to see a representative from the local scouts group included to ensure their thoughts are heard with the intention of progress being made in this regard.
"There has been much negativity regarding Portlick in recent times and no one person or group has a right to sole use of the amenity and I look forward to hearing from the committee in the future as to their thoughts for enhancement of the site. I must stress that Portlick is a facility for use for all individuals and groups," Cllr. Dolan remarked.
Concurring, Fine Gael Councillor, Tom Farrell, noted that working together as a unit in tandem with the local authority would ensure that Portlick is "put on the map".
"Portlick is there for use by the people of the county and of the nation," Cllr. Farrell asserted.
Town Mayor, Cllr. Aengus O'Rourke stated his support of the motion, adding that the segregation of trails, a source of much concern within the amenity, could be achieved, while his political party colleague, Cllr. Frankie Keena, noted that for progress to be made, there needed to be unity of prupose with regard to the future of Portlick.
