Back with a splash
Dromineer water park reopens after insurance impasse
Lough Derg Aqua Splash has reopened following the successful resolution of an insurance dilemma that forced the popular water park to close last summer. The Dromineer attraction was the subject of Dáil debate last year as an example of adventure sports tourism providers across the country that could not obtain insurance cover. This year, however, Aqua Splash has reopened as part of a group insurance scheme facilitated by the Irish Association of Adventure Tourism (IAAT). Stephen Fitzgerald of Aqua Splash said his business had encountered a lot of difficulties as it tried to regain its footing in the aftermath of the pandemic, only to be hit with the insurance obstacle. But he welcomed that the issue has now been dealt with and that the Dromineer water park is back in business. “We're just delighted to be back open,” Mr Fitzgerald said. Aqua Splash has been operational since the middle of May and has been busy mostly with school tours during the week. Mr Fitzgerald said the poor weather has played against the attraction so far this year, but he anticipated much greater visitor numbers from around the middle of June on, once the schools close and families take their holidays.
STAFF SHORTAGES
Bolstering the local economy since opening seasonally (mid May to mid September) in 2016, Aqua Splash can cater for as many as 140 people at a time between the inflatable water park, kayaks, stand-up pedal (SUP) boards and pedal boats. But another significant problem encountered by its operators - as is the case with many others - is the lack of suitable candidates answering its job advertisements. “We're struggling to get staff,” Mr Fitzgerald said. “We've been trying everything but it's impossible to get staff. Whatever is going on this year, it's the same in every sector.” Aqua Splash has openings for lifeguards and office staff, as well as baristas for its coffee dock/ice cream stall. Meanwhile, Tipperary Co Council has granted conditional planning permission for the seasonal installation of a timber canoe and SUP storage platform and jetty for Aquasplash. A Natura Impact Statement (NIS) was prepared and submitted to the council with the application.