Vol. 500 No. 6
53 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources his preferred options in terms of ferry services between Ireland and the continent with particular reference to the need for competitive pricing; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4747/99]
The Government's position on the pricing and provision of ferry services, by operators on specific ferry routes, is that it favours the maintenance and development of as many access transport services as possible, to and from this country, in the interests of our trade and tourism. However, the decision to operate specific services, and the nature of the services provided on particular routes, are ultimately matters appropriate to the commercial judgment of individual ferry operators.
