Catherine Connolly (Galway West, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister for her answer and the clarification that the steering committee is meeting regularly, including that it met on 18 June and will meet again on 16 July. I know the Minister realises why we needed an islands policy and an implementation plan. We also urgently need legislation ensuring that rights given to the islanders are all based on legislation. We are left with - I will not call it a circus - this interchange on a regular basis for essential infrastructure on both islands. Phases 1 and 2 at Caladh Mór pier on Inis Meáin were completed in 2008. We are looking at a preliminary business case and assessment for the third phase, which is absolutely essential. The lack of infrastructure is interfering with cargo ships coming in and businesses on the island.

I welcome the progress in respect of Inis Oírr. That project commenced 20 years ago. We are now in 2024 but we finally have a date, later this year, for when the contractor will be engaged. I welcome that.

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