asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will state why the Galway-Aran Isles transport service was discontinued between the 28th December, 1950, and the 25th January, 1951.

asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether he will state the present position regarding the proposal to transfer to Córas Iompair Éireann the service operated by the Galway Bay Steamship Company, Limited.

I propose, with the permission of the Ceann Comhairle, to take Questions Nos. 62 and 64 together.

I am informed by the Galway Bay Steamship Company that the Galway-Aran service was temporarily discontinued, as the company had no funds with which to meet wages, insurance and other expenses. A payment on account of £500 was made on 18th January to the company to enable the service to be resumed.

Arrangements for the future operation of the service are proceeding, and I hope that a satisfactory conclusion may soon be reached.

Will the Parliamentary Secretary say if the future operation of the service will be under Córas Iompair Éireann?

Negotiations are proceeding, but, as the Deputy is probably aware, the delay is due to the fact that the Galway Bay Steamship Company claim that they are legally entitled to the ownership of the Dun Aengus, whereas the contrary view is that it is the property of the Minister for Industry and Commerce. When that matter has been satisfactorily settled it is anicipated that Córas Iompair Éireann will operate the service.

Can the Parliamentary Secretary say offhand what capital sum is owing by the company to the Department?

That is a separate question. I could not say offhand.

Is the Parliamentary Secretary aware that this service, due to its financial condition, will be discontinued on 1st March next, and will he take steps to have the service continued by further advances?

I am not aware of that, but I will have the matter examined.