asked the Minister for Transport and Power if he will make a statement regarding the massive losses projected by the B & I Line this year; and what steps his Department intend taking to avert or alleviate any such losses.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Projected B & I Losses.
11.
As I indicated in reply to a previous question on this subject in Dáil Éireann on 7th March, 1972, the B & I Company, like other transport undertakings, are seriously affected by the present difficulties facing the tourist trade. I am informed by the company that advance car-ferry bookings for 1972 are down on the comparable figures for 1971. The company's present estimate is that this decline in bookings will produce an operating loss of over £400,000 for the year.
In the light of this situation the company have carried out a review of their position and have adopted certain measures to reduce costs. These include the reduction of sailing schedules and of advertising and promotion expenditure.
At the same time a re-direction and intensification of marketing efforts is taking place. This involves a concentration on the Irish ethnic market in Britain, and the offering of package auto-holidays in conjunction with Irish hotel chains.
The longer-term implications of the current set-back are at present the subject of assessment by the B & I Company.
In view of the fact that air fares have sky-rocketed, will the Minister not promote a campaign for travelling by B & I?
They are doing this. We have to face the very serious situation in relation to the non-ethnic British car traffic which is there whether we like it or not.