Robert Troy (Longford-Westmeath, Fianna Fail)
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44. To ask the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht if she will address the need for action over the impending loss of the sole ferry link between the Aran island of Inis Mór and Galway; her plans to avert this; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32773/16]

Seán Kyne (Galway West, Fine Gael)
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As Minister of State with responsibility for the offshore islands, I am very conscious of the importance of the ferry service referred to for the island of Inis Mór and the vital link that it provides to the mainland. The Deputy will be aware that the ferry service operator has announced that it will cease operations with effect from 1 December 20 16 for approximately 4 months. My officials and I have been actively working, to the extent of my Department’s competence, to help find a resolution to the issues that brought about the operator’s announcement. I have recently had meetings with Galway County Council and with public representatives, as well as representatives of the island community, in relation to the matter. My Department is continuing to examine all of the options that are available to it and will work with interested parties to help reach a settlement which would allow the service to remain in operation, while recognising, of course, the significant role of Galway County Council in the matter.