Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry South, Independent)

I thank the Ceann Comhairle for giving us this opportunity. I speak on behalf of Jimmy Flannery, Tom Hand and all the boatmen who try to make a modest living taking passengers out into Dingle Bay, in particular to see Fungie the dolphin. These people have provided a great service in our tourism sector throughout the years and people have enjoyed these trips.

At present, however, these people are struggling with the cost of diesel and the increased charges they already have to pay. I shall give an example of what the proposed new charges will mean. The fishing boat is exactly the same as the passenger boat. The proposed annual charges would mean a charge of €1,215 for a fishing boat but €6,290 for a passenger boat. We must make a clear distinction here today. These people are trying to make their living in what may be as little as a three or four week period whereas passenger boats in other parts of the country are not only subsidised but have all-year-round business. These people have a very short and narrow window of opportunity. If July or August is bad they may have a very bad season and end by losing money.

I spoke to the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Deputy Coveney, in recent weeks about this matter. I plead with him to make a special category or section to ensure that these kind of boats will be recognised for what they do. I compliment the Government if it is trying to create new jobs in other sectors and wish it well in that work. I plead with the Government to look at the jobs we have and to try to help people continue in their work. This is a typical example. The people operating in Dingle do not want anything from anyone except fair play and to be left alone to make their living. I ask the Minister not to increase the harbour charges on these men and hunt them out of business and onto the dole queue. The Government should think about its mantra about jobs and change it slightly to protect the jobs we have. These people are minding their own business and providing an invaluable, safe service to those who visit County Kerry. I want them to be able to continue and, in the years after we leave this House, I want their families to continue the proud tradition of seeing after our visitors and taking them onto the sea in a safe and happy fashion. I plead with the Minister to help them out in this regard. I am relying on the Minister.

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