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Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Thursday, 9 Feb 1956

Vol. 154 No. 2

Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Galway-Aran Islands Service.

asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he is aware that the s.s. Dún Aengus is to be withdrawn from service on 18th February for an indefinite period, and that it is recommended that live stock intended for sale be forwarded not later than that date; and, if so, if he will ask C.I.E. to arrange for future shipments in the event of a prolonged absence of the Dún Aengus from service so as to obviate premature sales of live stock; further, if he will cause inquiries to be made as to the least inconvenient time to send the Dún Aengus for future surveys, with particular reference to the period immediately following on the autumn fairs.

I am aware that the s.s. Dún Aengus is to be withdrawn from service shortly for survey in connection with the renewal of the vessel's passenger and load line certificates and that C.I.E. have asked Aran islanders to forward live stock intended for sale before the vessel is due to be withdrawn from service. The operation of the Galway-Aran service is the responsibility of C.I.E. and I have no doubt that C.I.E. will do everything possible to minimise the inconvenience to the islanders while the vessel is withdrawn from the service. C.I.E. are arranging to replace the s.s. Dún Aengus in due course by a new vessel, and in this connection the suggestion made as to the most suitable time for the withdrawal of the vessel for survey will be conveyed to C.I.E. I might also mention for the Deputy's information that I have since been informed that the Dún Aengus will be available for the February fair and will be brought back into service as soon as possible.

Would the Minister bring to the attention of C.I.E. the necessity of seeing that the live-stock traffic particularly is catered for to the best of their ability between now and the time the Dún Aengus returns? That is the most important point which the three communities of islanders have put before the Minister and the Taoiseach.

C.I.E. have given the assurance that they will endeavour to have the boat back in operation before the end of March.

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