asked the Minister for Transport and Power if permission has been given for the operation of a ferry service between Kilrush and Tarbert; if so, whether he is aware that such service could cause a serious loss of tourist revenue to Limerick; and if in view of the anxiety in Limerick at present he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Kilrush-Tarbert Ferry Service.
5.
No permission is required for the operation of the proposed ferry but the operators must, of course, comply with the safety provisions of the Merchant Shipping Acts.
I am informed that it is the view of Bord Fáilte that the ferry should be of benefit to tourism on both sides of the estuary and is unlikely to damage the interests of Limerick city.
Is the Minister aware that in the current issue of the Bord Fáilte publication, Holidays in Ireland, there is information relating to that ferry service which is misleading and inaccurate? Particularly, they claim that this service would reduce the journey between Galway and Killarney by 100 miles, which is not true. Would the Minister look into the matter?
I have not seen the particular reference in the booklet, which I read in general. I did not read every page. Bord Fáilte believe the main traffic from Cork to Galway is through Limerick and the provision of the ferry trips to the Clare coast, then back to Tarbert and to Limerick would offer more opportunities to the area.
Questions Nos. 6 and 7 postponed.