Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 20 Mar 1991

Vol. 406 No. 7

Written Answers. - Ferry Service to Aran Islands.

Eric J. Byrne

Question:

75 Mr. Byrne asked the Minister for Tourism, Transport and Communications if, in relation to Galway city-Aran Islands ferry link, it is intended to pay a subsidy or provide other financial support for a private operator on this line; if so, the amount involved; if Irish Rail, who were the operators of the former ferry, the Naomh Éanna, were precluded from tendering; the amount of the subsidy paid to Irish Rail in respect of the last full year in which the Naomh Éanna operated; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Tourism, Transport and Communications (Mr. S. Brennan)

During 1990 tenders were invited by my Department from suitably qualified ferry operators for the provision of a new ferry service to the Aran Islands. Irish Rail were not precluded from tendering for the new service.

In December 1990, the Government approved the placing of a contract with the Doolin Ferry Co. Ltd., for the provision of a cargo-passenger ferry service between Galway and the Aran Islands for a period of five years at an annual cost to the Exchequer of £475,000. The new service to be provided by the Doolin Ferry Co. Ltd. marks a significant improvement in the quality and frequency of previous services between Galway and the Aran Islands.

TheNaomh Éanna was withdrawn by CIE from service in September 1988. The subsidy paid to CIE in respect of the provision of ferry services to the Aran Islands in 1988 was £435,000. Irish Rail subsequently provided the service using vessels chartered from private operators.