asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether his attention has been drawn to the lack of information available concerning sailings between Galway and the Aran Islands and the general unsatisfactory nature of the service provided; and, if so, whether he is in a position to indicate what steps have been taken to remedy the situation.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Galway-Aran Islands Sailings.
The service between Galway and the Aran Islands was transferred to Córas Iompair Éireann in August, 1951, and is now operated as part of the national transport system.
I am aware that the service provided has been the subject of certain adverse criticism in correspondence which has recently appeared in the Press. I am informed that as from 4th June sailings will be provided between Galway and the islands on Wednesdays and Saturdays in each week and that the service will be extensively advertised in the public Press and by means of posters and handbills. It is also proposed to provide a number of excursions on Sundays during the summer and on public holidays on 2nd June and 4th August.
The S.S. Dún Aengus—the vessel with which the service is operated— has been in use for many years. I have informed the board of my anxiety to have an improved service and have asked them to examine the matter as soon as possible.
I am very glad the Minister has taken steps to try to have the services improved. No doubt the Minister was made aware of the fact that some persons made inquiries from the Córas Iompair Éireann offices and also from the Irish Tourist Association offices to ascertain when services were available and were told that there was no information on the subject. I appreciate the position has been remedied.
As the Deputy may be aware, the Dún Aengus was down in the Cork dockyard for overhaul, and is only now coming back into service.