Donal Carey
Question:99 Mr. D. Carey asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands if she has examined population trends on the offshore islands; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6884/99]
Written Answers. - Offshore Islands.
I am aware of the population trends on the offshore islands as published on pages 128 and 129 of "Census 96 – Population Classified by Area", volume 1, and I have noted that, while there has been a decrease in the population of a number of those islands granted island status by my Department, the overall number inhabiting these islands has increased between 1991 and 1996. With a view to continuing this trend, I have introduced a number of measures aimed at improving the living conditions of island inhabitants.
I am continuing the process of implementing an action plan to address the needs of our islands as promised in An Action Programme for the Millennium. In 1998, I announced assistance of almost £3.9 million towards various capital works on islands. This programme of works is being carried out in partnership with local authorities.
Access to the mainland was one of the main issues raised with me on the various occasions I met with island communities and their representatives. Since I assumed responsibility for the offshore islands I have provided significant funding for access, including over £1.7 million for the inhabited islands off the coast of County Cork and for the first time ferry services to and from Inishbofin, Inishturk and Clare Island have been subsidised. The announcement in the recent budget of the doubling of new house grants on islands is a major boost to islanders wishing to build new homes for themselves.
Through the interdepartmental committee on the islands, the Gaeltacht and the Irish language, the implementation of Government policy on the offshore islands is co-ordinated so as to ensure it is implemented in an effective manner. As chairman of this committee I will continue to endeavour to ensure equal access to services such as health, education, water, roads, electricity, refuse collection etc., for our island communities.
Numerous positive decisions have been made following discussions at the interdepartmental committee by various Government Departments in relation to the islands. I have succeeded in obtaining an increase of 30 per cent in funding for the offshore islands in 1999 and this additional funding will further assist me in continuing with the work which I have already outlined.