Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 21 Oct 2003

Vol. 572 No. 6

Written Answers. - Ferry Services.

Eamon Ryan

Question:

96 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if consideration is being given to increasing the subsidy paid to island ferry operators in view of increased harbour dues being levied by the Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24028/03]

Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs (Éamon Ó Cuív)

The subsidies paid by my Department to ferry operators for the provision of ferry services to the islands are determined by a public tendering process and it is not open to me within the parameters of existing contracts to increase the level of subsidy paid to these operators for existing services .