17 Jun Dillon receives confirmation on increased sailings for Clare Island ferry service

– Clare Island set to receive minimum of four return ferry sailings daily in a doubling from two returns services;

– Allows significantly greater connectivity from Clare Island to Roonagh and improve ease of living for island residents.

Fine Gael Spokesperson on Tourism and Sport, Deputy Alan Dillon, has welcomed confirmation from Rural and Community Development Minister, Heather Humphreys TD, that her Department will be increasing the number of daily sailings to Clare Island.  A tender recently issued by her Department only required a minimum of two return services daily, which meant something as simple as a medical appointment required sacrificing an entire day to travel to the mainland.  The ferry service will now be increased to four return sailings daily and will be a real game changer for people living on the island, as well as increasing tourism opportunities.

Deputy Dillon said: “I sincerely thank Cliara Development Company and island residents for their work in highlighting this issue and to also thank Minister Humphreys for her work in ensuring an increase in the frequency of the ferry service.  Last month, she committed funding of €747,000 to Mayo islands, but this increase in return sailings far outweighs the value of any funding announcements.  It will make a real difference to those living on Clare Island, as well as those are considering moving to or back home to the island.  I will continue to work with Minister Humphreys on securing a new helipad for their neighbouring island of Inishturk.”