Vol. 456 No. 8
22 Mr. Molloy asked the Minister for Transport, Energy and Communications the steps, if any, he will take to extend a scheduled passenger air service to Inisboffin, County Galway, and Inisturk, County Mayo; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14706/95]
I am aware of the difficulties that can be experienced by island communities in maintaining contact with the mainland, particularly during the winter months. Of course this problem cannot be looked at only in relation to the islands identified by the Deputy.
The problems of the islands should properly be seen in the overall context of western development and rural renewal. The Taoiseach indicated the priority he attaches to the development of a total strategy in this whole area by appointing my colleague Minister of State, Donal Carey, as Minister of State with responsibility for co-ordinating the Government's commitment to western development and rural renewal.
