The pilot service for ships arriving and leaving Dublin Port is being updated.
At present pilots operate from small steam boats which cruise an area in Dublin Bay, approximately 150 square miles, using small cutters to board ships entering Dublin Port.
General Manager of the Dublin Port and Docks Board DA Hegarty explains that the current system will be replaced with a shore based service using two fast launches covering an area between the Baily Lighthouse in Howth to Dalkey Island.
As ships entering Dublin Port now use modern navigational technology, the pilotage area of the bay will in due course be reduced to thirty square miles.
The pilot service is not only there for the safety of ships and seamen, but is an essential part of keeping the port open and running smoothly,
If a large ship got into trouble…it could block the whole port for six weeks or a couple of months.
The new pilot station which is currently under construction near the Pigeon House will open in August. In addition to modern accommodation for pilots and boatmen the watchtower will be equipped with twentieth century navigational aids, says Harbourmaster of Dublin Port Commander AJ O'Brien Twohig. As shipping has embraced technology, pilots will spend more time ashore as,
Ships can approach very much closer than ever they did before, in perfect safety.
Barney Loan who has been a pilot for twelve years is in agreement with the proposed changes. Safety and working conditions for pilots will greatly improve and it also means that they will spend more time at home with their families,
You can live ashore and still go to sea.
An RTÉ News report broadcast on 8 May 1962. The reporter is John Ross.
