Michael Ring (Mayo, Fine Gael)
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Question 304: To ask the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if, in relation to a contract (details supplied), a boat has been selected; if so if that boat is compliant with the tender which was sent out. [3012/09]

Michael Ring (Mayo, Fine Gael)
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Question 305: To ask the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if a five-year contract (details supplied) has been signed; the person who was awarded the contract; if he will provide this Deputy with a copy of the contract. [3013/09]

Éamon Ó Cuív (Galway West, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 304 and 305 together.

In late 2007, my Department awarded a five-year contract for the service referred to by the Deputy. This contract, which has been signed, covers the period from 1 January 2008 to 31 December 2012 and I will arrange for a copy to be forwarded to the Deputy for information.

The service in question is provided by an operator using three vessels in total. Under the terms of the contract concluded between my Department and the operator, the operator committed to carry out certain improvements to the main vessel used on the service. Arrangements are currently being made by the operator to have these improvements made. I am advised that the works proposed are aimed at improving the service and that, since the commencement of the contract on 1 January 2008, the service has been provided to the general satisfaction of the island communities involved. I am also advised that the vessels in question are fully compliant with all national safety standards.