Pádraic McCormack
Ceist:174 Mr. McCormack asked the Minister for Tourism, Transport and Communications whether a British registered vessel is employed on the Galway-Aran service; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Galway-Aran Service.
On 1 April 1991, O'Brien Shipping Ltd. commenced the operation of a new ferry service between Galway and the Aran Islands using the cargo vessel, the Palbro Pride. The Palbro Pride, which is registered in the United Kingdom, was inspected by officers of the Department of the Marine prior to the commencement of the service. I am informed that a new custom built cargo/passenger vessel is being constructed for the ferry service and that the Palbro Pride is being used to provide an interim service pending completion of the new vessel.
I have been advised that it is not unusual for vessels registered in other countries to operate in Irish waters. O'Brien Shipping Ltd. are currently examining the possibility of registering the vessel in Ireland.