Date: 04 Jun 2025
Official Re-opening of Rathmullan Pier
Rathmullan Pier was officially reopened on Friday last (30th May) by Minister of State at the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media, Charlie McConalogue TD together with Cathaoirleach of Donegal County Council, Cllr. Niamh Kennedy. This major capital refurbishment project was delivered over a 9-month period at a cost of over €4.5m
Rathmullan Pier is located on the west of Lough Swilly. The pierhead, which was constructed in 1957, is accessed by a 120m long viaduct built in 1934. A condition report confirmed that the pier and particularly the approach viaduct section needed repair. The Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine under the Brexit Adjustment Local Authority Marine Infrastructure Scheme, provided €0.6 million towards the works and further funding of €3.7 million was provided by the DAFM, co-funded by Donegal County Council.
It was proposed that the pier be completely refurbished, as well as the access viaduct, removing the need for the existing 3 tonne weight limit. This involved the replacement of the existing viaduct deck as well as other structural elements. Contractors Cunningham Civil and Marine were awarded the tender to undertake construction works.
The official reopening ceremony coincided with the Annual Blessing of the Boats hosted by the Rathmullan Sailing and Watersports Club and the crowd were entertained by the Colmcille Gospel Choir.
