asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs if he is aware that when the "Hazelside" was torpedoed about 12 miles off Cape Clear on 24th September last, medical and nursing aid could have been procured earlier, and much suffering and anxiety avoided, had telephonic communication between the Cape and the mainland been available; if he is further aware that the necessity for this telephonic communication has been stressed for the past nine years, and if he will now, in view of the possibility of further disasters like that of the "Hazelside" and of the medical necessities of the 300 persons living on the island, expedite the erection of this telephonic communication.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Telephonic Communication with Cape Clear.
No information is available in my Department as to the circumstances attending the rescue operations in connection with the "Hazelside". I am, however, fully aware of the need for the provision of communication facilities with Cape Clear Island and in this connection I have had under consideration representations also made by other Deputies of the constituency. A scheme for a wireless telephony service, which had been decided on, has been held up owing to difficulty, by reason of the existing emergency, in procuring the requisite apparatus. Inquiries are, however, proceeding and everything practicable will be done to enable service to be afforded at the earliest possible date.