asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce what is the present position in regard to the provision of a new boat for the Galway-Aran service, and when the contract is likely to be placed.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Galway-Aran Service.
I am informed by C.I.E., who are responsible for the operation of the Galway-Aran service, that the preparation of detailed plans and specifications for the new vessel to replace the s.s. Dun Aengus is nearing completion. Until then, a firm contract for the new vessel cannot be placed.
Would the Minister indicate how long it will take to build this new vessel and what it will cost?
It will take approximately 15 months to build the new vessel from the time the order is placed. I cannot, of course, tell the Deputy the precise cost of the new vessel because the contract has not yet been placed, but he may take it that the cost will be of substantial proportions.
Mr. Lemass
Would the Minister agree that there has been unreasonable delay in preparing these plans?
As the Deputy knows only too well, the provision of this service is a matter, under legislation, for C.I.E., and not for the Department. In order to help in this whole matter, for the first time, I think, the Department, because C.I.E. had not much shipping experience, took a hand as far as it could in the acceleration of the arrangements for the placing of the contract. This vessel presented unusual difficulties because the new vessel will have to be designed to meet the ordinary needs of the islanders as regards the transport of passengers, live stock and mails and also to provide for the tourist traffic in the summer season. These requirements present a difficulty to a company not familiar with handling shipping problems. I think all the difficulties have now been surmounted and I expect at an early date that a position will be reached whereby tenders can be invited for the contract.
Would the Minister indicate the speed of this new vessel?
I have no information as to its speed, Deputy.