Rónán Mullen (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I would be grateful for an opportunity to engage in dialogue with the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht on a number of issues recently drawn to my attention. I would like to hear from the Minister what the Government proposes to do in regard to the ferry contract to Inishmore in the Aran Islands. While this may appear an unimportant issue to some people, the failure of the Government to negotiate the continuation of that contract has resulted in an increase in fare from ¤8 to ¤15, which is another example of the affect of hard times on people. As it was possible for the Government to negotiate the State contract for ferry services between the islands, it is unfortunate it could not do so in respect of the Inishmore ferry service. I am not in this regard attributing blame as I know the Government sought to renew the contract on the same terms as previously. I understand that while the service continues it does so at great expense to people. I would like to think it would still be possible to make progress on that issue.

There is much talk about equality. While equality is good, our understanding of it can often be overly simplistic.

Aiken Promotions is no longer facilitating a free carer's ticket for people who attend one of their events with a person with a disability. This practice used to go on, rightly so, and other concert and event promoters facilitate a person caring for a person with a disability. The GAA, in particular, has a good record. Aiken Promotions gave the reason that it seeks to treat able-bodied people the same as those with disabilities. That misses the point. It is one of the more positive aspects of society that we recognise people who care for a person with disabilities and offer a particular service. It makes it possible to enjoy the good things in life and, in recessionary times, we should ensure that as far as possible. I hope for change in the area, which is one in which the Minister should take an interest.