asked the Minister for Transport and Power whether there have been any recent developments on the feasibility of utilising hovercraft on the Irish Sea; and the present position in the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Use of Hovercraft.
24.
Mr. O'Donnell
I am not aware of any recent developments in this matter. As I said in reply to a similar question on 28th July, 1971, the B & I, through their wholly-owned subsidiary, Irish Sea Hovercraft Ltd., are keeping developments in hovercraft operations under constant review, with particular reference to their possible use on the Irish Sea. The current assessment of the position by both the B & I Company and my Department, is that hovercraft, at their present stage of development, are not suitable for commercial operation under Irish Sea conditions.