Sir, – I enjoyed Pádraic Fogarty’s feature on Bull Island (“Bull Island is nature’s gift to Dubliners. They haven’t been grateful," Analysis, March 12th).
My introduction to the island was in childhood and I progressed to running its spectacular near-7km circuit. These days, I am limited to walking, but I still relish the opportunity to commune with nature on my visits.
The changes over the years have been noticeable, particularly the dramatic increase in winter use since the Covid pandemic. Many people discovered it as a year-round amenity. While there are some facilities at the Wooden Bridge end, additional facilities near the Bull Island causeway would be welcome.
In my observation, most visitors, including dog owners, respect the regulations. However, a minority do not. A recent example was a scrambler bike in the dunes.
RM Block
On a fine summer’s day, there can be mayhem accessing and leaving the island via the bridge and causeway, yet there is rarely any visible authority. This contrasts with amenities abroad, where there is a clear presence of officials and antisocial behaviour is addressed promptly. Non-compliance and the lax application of regulations remain a feature of Irish life and extend well beyond Dollymount Strand.
As for the much-missed island hares, their disappearance was largely brought about by the causeway, which allowed foxes from nearby St Anne’s Park easier access to the island. To my knowledge, the golf clubs on the island have attempted to reintroduce them on several occasions, but without success. – Yours, etc,
DAVID CASSIDY,
Dublin 9.
