asked the Minister for Lands and Fisheries whether, in view of the famine brought about by the weather conditions of the winter of 1927-1928 on the islanders living off the Mayo coast, it is intended to make any arrangements to safeguard these islanders against such an occurrence in the future; and, if so, whether he will state what these arrangements are.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Distress in Co. Mayo.
The existing communications with the islands off the West coast generally have recently been the subject of investigation, and proposals for their improvement are at present under examination.
Is the Minister aware that last November a representative, or at least a man who claimed to be a representative, of a Government Department was down there, and stated that a boat would be placed at the disposal of those people who live at Clew Bay, with an undertaking that it would be at the disposal of the islanders two days a week? Representation has been made by the local priests in this matter.
The position at the moment is that certain proposals made by us are awaiting a meeting of the Western Disaster Committee. That meeting is due in the month of March.