Sir, – Surely it would be faster and more cost effective to re-start a national sail training programme (Enda O’Coineen August 23rd) by recommissioning the Jeanie Johnston.
It was built in Fenit as a North-South project. It has already crossed the Atlantic. It seems to be owned by a public body – the now wound-up Dublin Docklands Development Authority.
Although the original was a Famine ship, it was run in a way that demonstrated enlightened self-interest during a time of misery. During 16 voyages carrying over 2,500 passengers, no lives were lost on board. The captain took his duty of care seriously
The shameful fate of Asgard II and the insurance funds shows that public servants (elected and appointed) cannot be trusted to maintain a sail training programme. Rather than a public-private partnership, Enda O’Coineen’s aim would be met more securely by setting up a trust, completely independent of government, to operate and maintain the Jeanie Johnston as the national flagship.
For those who feel the need for a ship-based Famine museum, the Dunbrody in New Ross is perfectly fine. – Yours, etc,