The controversial dredging of the Spit Bank in Cork's lower harbour has been postponed for seven days, pending further negotiations between the Department of the Marine and local fishermen. Department officials travelled to Cork yesterday to discuss the licensing of dredging at the Spit Bank, as part of the Lee Tunnel project which will cost more than £90 million.
Fishermen claim that 17 years ago, when work was being carried out at the Ringaskiddy deep-water berth in the harbour, significant amounts of infill were removed from the bank. They also claim that the Spit Bank - one of the most important breeding grounds for many species of fish in the harbour - was left in an irreparable condition. They say echo soundings have shown that de- spite assurances from the port authorities, it has not been rejuvenated.
Last week, the fishermen blockaded the harbour and prevented dredging on the bank and have threatened a repeat unless the Department con- cedes that there is potential damage to marine life. After hours of talks yesterday, Department officials as well as Tarmac Walls, the tunnel consructors, and officials of the Ports Authority in Cork, agreed there would be no further dredging for seven days.