Holly Cairns (Cork South West, Social Democrats) | Oireachtas source

Last month, it was announced that the Dursey Island cable car service will be paused from 1 April for essential repairs. That was a considerable shock to the island's residents, to locals who farm on the island and to the local tourism sector, as the cable car is a significant attraction on the Beara Peninsula. The issue is the absence of a replacement service with the closure of the cable car next Friday. We need a publicly funded alternative service but no one is taking responsibility. The Minister for Rural and Community Development informed me that Cork County Council is responsible for any replacement. On Monday, however, Cork county councillors were informed that it is the Department’s responsibility. The only option for residents and landowners is to use private boats on a dangerous stretch of water. Some people obviously do not have private boats. There was a clear need for this to be financed and for a Minister to intervene. I would appreciate any comments from the Minister on this issue.

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