Clarity sought on supports for ferry operators in Mayo
A Mayo TD has sought clarity from the government to ensure that ferry operators serving Ireland’s offshore islands (Clare Island & Inishturk) receive targeted support considering rising fuel costs.
Deputy Keira Keogh questioned An Taoiseach on the floor of the Dáil and followed up with a parliamentary question to the minister for transport.
Speaking in the chamber, Deputy Keogh highlighted to An Taoiseach: “As we know, ferries are vital to get islanders to their healthcare appointments, education and other things.
"I welcome the packages for farmers, hauliers, contractors and so on, but we also must look at ferry operators.
"Government policy recognises the importance of sustaining island life, but recognition will not be enough here. We must engage with ferry operators, listen to them and make sure that we provide practical and sustainable solutions to make sure it does not affect the islanders”
An Taoiseach responded that the government recognises the importance of these services and that they would be included in the government’s support package, he described the ferries as a vital form of connectivity and “the lifeblood” for island communities.
The Minister for Transport Dara O'Brien has also responded and clarified that there are currently 25 contracts for subsidised passenger and cargo ferry services year-round between the mainland and permanently inhabited offshore islands. These contracts include a fuel price variation clause.
There are also several non-subsidised ferry services to the offshore islands, many of whom would operate on a seasonal basis.
The Department of Transport is currently finalising the operation of the Road Transporters Support Scheme in response to the recent fuel costs increases and it is envisaged that these non-subsidised ferry services to the offshore islands may be eligible for support under this scheme, subject to qualifying criteria.
In order to access the scheme, all vessels and operators will be required to have the appropriate certificates and licences issued by the Marine Survey Office (MSO) of the Department of Transport.
The detailed plans will go to the government shortly for final approval on the eligibility and payment amounts ahead of the commencement of the scheme.
Details of how to apply for the scheme will be made available as soon as possible.
Keogh welcomed the clarification but emphasised the need for continued engagement with operators to ensure that supports are practical, timely, and sufficient to protect essential island services.
“Islanders depend on these ferries for healthcare, education, work and daily life,” Keogh said following the exchange.
“Rising fuel costs pose a real threat to the sustainability of these routes. Ensuring ferry operators are supported is not optional, it is fundamental to sustaining island communities.”