Written answers
Wednesday, 6 February 2008
Department of Transport
Ferry Services
9:00 pm
Tom Sheahan (Kerry South, Fine Gael)
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Question 211: To ask the Minister for Transport the efforts he has made to re-introduce the Cork Swansea Ferry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3959/08]
Noel Dempsey (Meath West, Fianna Fail)
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The Cork Swansea Ferry service was suspended in 2007. I can appreciate the concerns that have been expressed in the region in response to this development.
I understand that a number of interested parties and stakeholders have been in discussions with the Port of Cork Company about the possibility of commencing a new passenger and freight service out of the port.
I am informed that a commercial examination of the route has been carried out. This indicates that, subject to procuring a suitable vessel, the service could be feasible on a year round basis.
The Port of Cork Company will certainly do what it can to facilitate the resumption of the service.
As Minister for Transport, I feel it is important that the market offers a diverse range of maritime links in and out of the State. This is vital to facilitate trade and tourism. I certainly hope that the current efforts show that the service is commercially viable and that it can be resumed as soon as possible.
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