A newly formed group representing Waterford Estuary’s coastal villages of Passage East, Cheekpoint, Ballyhack, Arthurstown, and Duncannon has launched a campaign for major investment in the economic and social renewal of the villages on both sides of the estuary that borders Wexford and Waterford counties.

In a statement announcing its formation, the Waterford Estuary Villages’ Alliance (WEVA) said that “the collapse of inshore fisheries as the economic backbone of the estuary’s small shoreline villages over the past twenty years has led to major community decline and a threat to our unique heritage that needs to be addressed urgently.

“WEVA represents for the first time a unified and coherent voice for the estuary’s coastal villages in both counties whose views have not been heard in the past. Our goal is to deliver an economic, social and environmental impact programme that halts decline and drives sustainable development in our villages. ‘Ní neart go cur le chéile’, the Irish phrase which means strength comes from unity, sums up our motivation. We’re joining forces and raising a single voice for our communities so that we are truly heard before decisions about future investment in our region are made.

“We’re going to use our voice to campaign for a strategic renewal plan by local and national agencies that will deliver vital new infrastructure and resources – to develop marine tourism, renewable industries and innovative initiatives, while protecting our cultural and natural heritage.

“To that end, we’re currently getting in touch with all relevant agencies and elected officials at local and national level seeking their support for the Alliance and its goals. We have already received commitments from leading local councillors in both counties and will be getting in touch with others to seek their support too.”