Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 23 Apr 1996

Vol. 464 No. 3

Written Answers. - Aran Islands Ferry Services.

Robert Molloy

Ceist:

38 Mr. Molloy asked the Taoiseach the current position regarding the contract for the transport of goods and passengers from Galway to the three Aran Islands; the plans, if any, he has to advertise this contract again in the near future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8127/96]

The Taoiseach

In the context of the proposals on access services to islands contained in the Interdepartmental Coordinating Committee on Island Development, the Government recently agreed to the transfer, from the Department of Transport, Energy and Communications to the Department of the Taoiseach, responsibility for the Aran Islands ferry services, under the Aran Islands Transport Act, 1946.

At present an annual subsidy amounting to £550,000 is provided for a passenger/cargo ferry service from Galway city to the three Aran Islands. This ferry service is currently being provided by O'Brien Shipping, Galway. The contract with the company is for a fixed term of five years and ends on 31 August 1997.

Under the terms of the contract, the period of contract with the company may be extended for a further five year term subject to agreement being reached on its terms. In the event of the company not wishing to have its contract extended or if agreement cannot be reached on the terms of the new contract, the contract will be opened to tender.