Vol. 437 No. 2
152 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Transport, Energy and Communications if his attention has been drawn to the fact that it is planned that certain B & I routes would be contracted out to an agency using non-EC nationals; whether such arrangements require Government approval in situations where Government aid is sought with the cost of fleet replacement; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
My Department has some responsibility for roll-on roll-off ferry services (Ro/Ro). The Department of the Marine has responsibility for other aspects of Ro/Ro and full responsibility for lift on/lift off services (Lo/Lo).
Government aid is not available towards the cost of fleet replacement. Accordingly, the circumstances referred to in the Deputy's question do not arise in so far as Ro/Ro ferry services are concerned.
Issues relating to nationality of crews are a matter for the Minister for the Marine.
