Alan Dillon (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I wish to raise an issue on behalf of Mayo's island communities. The Clare Island passenger ferry and road transport service tender was recently published. It is a five-year tender from 2021 to 2026 but, dramatically, falls short on the expectations of the Clare Island community. Twice daily return services will not suffice from my engagement. That equates to only 728 sailings per annum to Clare Island. This is especially hard to swallow when compared with Tory Island which has over 1,800 sailings; Cape Clear, 1,400; and Sherkin, 2,231.

Last month, I welcomed the announcement by the Minister for Rural and Community Development, Deputy Humphreys, of €740,000 funding to Mayo's islands, with over €500,000 to Clare Island. However, significant infrastructure projects are required for Roonagh Pier which services Clare Island and Inishturk. In addition, a helipad with neighbouring Inishturk needs significant upgrading to allow the Coast Guard helicopter to land.

Will the Government resolve the issues concerning Clare Island residents? Will it look to provide an adequate ferry transport service?

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