Ferry Services

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 15 November 2017

Wednesday, 15 November 2017

Questions (141)

Noel Grealish

Question:

141. Deputy Noel Grealish asked the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the reason the awarding of the ferry contract to service the Aran Islands from Rossaveal is delayed; the number of operators that responded to the tender by the closing date on 12 October 2017; when she expects to award the contract; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [48431/17]

Written answers

Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht

By agreement with the current operator of the Inis Meáin/Inis Oírr service, an extension of one month was secured for this contract in order to provide time to complete the tender process for the new service covering the three islands.  In relation to the new contract, as there is an ongoing tendering process in relation to same, I am not in a position to comment publicly on same.