Claire Kerrane (Roscommon-Galway, Sinn Fein)
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1214. To ask the Minister for Rural and Community Development if it will be ensured that the minimum daily service is amended from two to four crossings per day regarding the tender for Clare Island ferry services; if the tender will be amended in consultation with Clare Island residents to ensure the needs of the community are met; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30541/21]

Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
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As the Deputy will be aware, this relates to a procurement matter, which is ongoing. The deadline for submissions from suppliers has passed and my Department is currently evaluating the material received. This process is being undertaken in keeping with the standard approach taken for ferry services subsidised by my Department.

Officials from my Department have consulted with the Island representative groups, and the approach taken by the Department when tendering for such services has been discussed with them.

As is standard with Requests for Tender (RFTs) issued by this Department for ferry services, the frequency of sailings requested is a minimum acceptable number. Prospective operators are encouraged to include additional sailings and services above the stated minimum required, and commonly do so.

The RFT does not limit or restrict the number of sailings that operators can provide. Where there is a demand for extra sailings, operators may, and do, provide additional sailings. As with all schedules, timetables are discussed and agreed with the island communities prior to the commencement of a service.