Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael)

The loss of the Cork to Swansea connection has had a significant and adverse impact on the local economy, particularly in east and west Cork and south Kerry. Is the Minister of State aware that the local communities have made available a fund of €3 million to help restore this service? I understand there is a ship in one of the Nordic countries which could be purchased in order to return to the local economy the benefit of the link between Cork and Swansea. It is very important, particularly for tourism, and tourism interests are particularly concerned at the service's absence. What steps will the Minister of State now take with that €3 million in order to immediately restore this essential economic service to the area?

See this speech in context