Dara Calleary (Mayo, Fianna Fail)

Gabhaim buíochas leis an Teachta. Tá mé chun freagra a thabhairt as Béarla, tá brón orm.

My Department makes a significant annual investment in subsidised transport services to ensure our island communities can avail of reliable, affordable year-round ferry and heavy cargo services. In the case of Oileáin Thoraí, there are four separate subsidised transport services provided for the island at an annual cost of approximately €750,000. Comharchumann Thoraí now plays a more central role in monitoring services to ensure they are delivered in line with contracts and that the issues that may arise are addressed promptly. This approach has resulted in a significant improvement in the delivery of all subsidised services to the island.

The main daily ferry service provides, at a minimum, two return sailings per day and can carry eight tonnes of light cargo per sailing. It is an important service that supports all aspects of island life, from tourism to indigenous island businesses. Last year, a new fast ferry service that provides two daily return sailings was launched for Oileáin Thoraí. This is an important addition to the existing suite of services as it originates from the island each morning. Residents can now be on the mainland before 9 a.m. each morning without having to travel the night before and, therefore, do not have to incur the extra expense and inconvenience of staying overnight.

The heavy cargo service has also seen vast improvements in recent times. Scheduled sailings are now planned in conjunction with Comharchumann Thoraí and the Department. Multiple mainland ports are used to deliver the service depending on the type of cargo being carried. This new flexibility has greatly enhanced the service and has had a beneficial impact on the community.

The winter helicopter service, provided in conjunction with the HSE, has been extended to start in October and end the following April. The scheduling of the service is far more flexible and, in particular, can serve residents returning home during busy periods.

The current subsidised range of services is meeting a community need. However, I am aware of the situation in respect of Magheraroarty Pier. I intend to visit it over the summer to envisage it. My understanding is that we allocated funding to Donegal County Council to complete a report and we are waiting on that. The Deputy has raised it with me previously, as has Deputy Pat The Cope Gallagher. I intend to visit Magheraroarty during the summer and I am happy to meet the Deputy there.

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