Great excitement over future of ship sank into Killala Bay
The MV Shingle sinks into the water. Picture: John O'Grady
A huge milestone in creating Ireland’s first artificial reef in Killala Bay was achieved last Wednesday when the MV Shingle was sank into the Bay.
The innovative venture came about as a result of cooperation between Killala Bay Ships 2 Reef (KBS2R), the Revenue Commission and Mayo and Sligo County Councils.
The vessel came to national prominence when it was seized by the Revenue in June 2014 during an operation that led to the detection and subsequent seizure of a significant quantity of cigarettes and tobacco aboard that were being illegally smuggled into the country.
KBS2R, a group of local diving enthusiasts, had been active in efforts to take over ownership of the Shingle for a number of years to create an artificial reef in Killala Bay to encourage biodiversity and tourism in the area.
Earlier this year, the group were granted a Maritime Area Consent licence to allow for the towing of the Shingle to the destination sinking site.
The 60 metre steel hulled cargo boat also underwent thorough preparations, including environmental procedures, making it eco-friendly and fit for purpose as an artificial reef.
The ship departed New Ross, where it had been in situ in the dry dock for a number of years, last Sunday week and arrived on site in Killala Bay for the sinking on Wednesday. The valves were opened on the ship around 3pm and it sank 25m-30m below the surface of the water just after 4pm.
Cllr Michael Loftus, a member of the Ships 2 Reef Group who played an integral part in the project, said he is excited for its future.
“This Marine reef will bring significant benefits to Killala Bay and the surrounding areas in many ways. Not only will it enrich our marine environment, but it will also open up exciting opportunities for tourism, recreation, and marine research that will benefit our region for years to come.
"The sinking of the MV Shingle on Wednesday marks a remarkable achievement for a dedicated group of volunteers who gave their time to make this vision a reality. This project would not have been possible without their hard work and commitment,” he said.
Minister of State Dara Calleary said the Shingle has the potential to bring great prosperity to the locality.
“The project has enjoyed widespread approval among tourism and hospitality operators in North Mayo and West Sligo – the exposure from the sinking of the vessel alone is publicity that you just cannot buy,” he said.
The Acting Director General of Customs and Revenue Commissioner Ruth Kennedy said Revenue were pleased to be involved in such a unique initiative.
“Revenue is very pleased to be involved in this unique and exciting project and congratulates the group on the initiative,” she said.
“Revenue wishes to emphasise our commitment to protecting our borders and we will use the full rigours of our enforcement powers to detain and seize product and conveyances used in attempted smuggling,” she added.
