asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will ascertain from C.I.E. the loss to date on the "St. Brendan" and "St. Ciarán", engaged on Shannon cruises, and if it is intended to continue this service.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Shannon Cruises.
I am informed by C.I.E. that the loss on the Shannon services in the 1955 season, when only one vessel was operated, amounted to approximately £2,500; and the loss in the 1956 season with two vessels, to £2,400. The Shannon cruises are a most desirable tourist amenity and the operating results cannot be considered in isolation. I understand for instance that in the 1956 season a substantial revenue was derived from rail and bus services operated in conjunction with the Shannon boat services.
C.I.E. do not regard the results to date, which are for an initial development period, as indicative of the prospects for future years and they intend to continue the services.
Would the Minister ask C.I.E. to consider increasing the tariff so that these services would be carried on in an economical way? It is hardly fair to the Dublin bus users.
I feel sure Deputy Childers will cheer that suggestion.