Vol. 481 No. 1
215 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands the current method of access to each inhabited island; if such methods are in compliance with all normal safety regulations currently applicable; which islands currently have unsuitable methods of access; and if she has instructed that a factual report be presented to her on this matter arising from commitments in An Action Programme for the Millennium. [15736/97]
: Access to inhabited islands is generally by boat. Some islands also have an air service and one island is serviced by a cablecar.
I have recently visited most of the inhabited islands off the coast in order to familiarise myself with the requirements of the residents thereon, including access requirements. I am at present considering the most appropriate and cost-effective responses to the inadequacies highlighted by islanders during my visits.
The question of compliance with safety regulations is a matter for the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources.
