A petition has been set up by Suzanne Ferris in an attempt to block the proposed Oyster Farm on Cruit Island from going ahead. The petition, launched this morning, is aiming to gather 1,000 signatures.
She said; “The proposed oyster farm on the island will leave this stunning place of natural beauty looking and feeling like another industrialised corner of Ireland.”
“One man’s deplorable decision cannot desecrate this island!”
“The initial concern is the effect the construction will have on the island, bringing crews, trucks and other machinery, disturbing local residents as well as the wildlife in the area. The beach is also a key tourist destination in the island and treasured by residents.”
“The proposal stated it would apparently only create two part time positions but details surrounding the project have been sketchy, I’m finding it difficult to locate information on the environmental impact study if one has even been done, but will be contacting the Minister’s office for further details soon and would welcome calls from others for information to put on pressure.”
“The combination of environmental and agricultural oversight into the minister’s purview is also of concern as it may lead to conflicts of interest.”
People who signed the petition highlighted their concerns in the comment section, saying “do not destroy such a beautiful part of Ireland and Donegal in particular. What benefit is that to the local people? The Wild Atlantic Way was promoted to draw more tourists NOT to showcase industries. It’s the natural beauty which is unique”, and “the effect on the tourist industry and local people will effect many for years to come.”
Another commenter summed it up by saying; “it would be a travesty if this is allowed to go ahead.”
This follows a public meeting attended by massive crowds to protest against the establishment of the proposed Oyster Farm on Cruit Island during the week.
It is believed an Italian businesswoman submitted an application to create an Oyster Farm at the site in 2011.
However, it was only last week that Minister Michael Creed gave the green light for an Oyster Farm project to go ahead at the site.
TD Pat ‘The Cope’ Gallagher released a statement in which he revealed that he had spoken to the minister and informed those opposed to the project to make submissions outlining their reasons as to why they were objecting to the Oyster Farm.
You can sign the petition by clicking here.
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