Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputies for raising the issue and I fully understand their frustrations over a very small amount of money. The Department understands that DIT is willing to continue to deliver the programme in partnership with the Sherkin Island development society, but ultimately funding for the Sherkin Island development society is not a matter for the Department of Education and Skills. I hope both Deputies understand that. I call on Cork County Council to play a role in settling this issue. There is funding from the Department of Education and Skills through the Higher Education Authority which subsequently goes to the Dublin Institute of Technology, and DIT is willing to play its part, but there is an onus on Cork County Council and I call on it to look at the issue. It is very important for island life, especially on Sherkin Island, and when I heard the debate on "Morning Ireland" last week, I could not understand how it could not have been sorted out before it went onto national radio, or came before this Chamber for that matter. The Deputies are right that a common-sense approach is needed. It breathes life into the island and I ask Cork County Council to reconsider its decision.

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