Seán Kyne (Galway West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I agree on the issue of depopulation. Obviously, the better the service in any rural area, be it on an island or anywhere else, the more depopulation is prevented. Aa part of the programme for Government, we hope to examine issues concerning a rural resettlement scheme. I certainly believe - I have touched on this with my officials - the islands should be very much a place where it should be prioritised and implemented.

On the sale, as I said in my reply, a decision was taken in 2013 to dispose of both airstrips and surrounding sites. I have asked the Roinn to initiate a discussion on this matter with locals and those with vested interests. Obviously, disposal was the decision made in 2013. It would have to be examined and agreed to by the Cabinet were it to go ahead.

On the question of costs, if the possibility of a service emerges from the consultation process, it will need to be examined in the context of our budget discussions and budget preparation.

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