486. Deputy Michael McCarthy asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht her views on correspondence (details supplied) regarding funding and ensuring equal footing with other island companies; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1905/16]

As indicated in Budget 2016, the current funding allocation available to my Department for the offshore islands has been increased from €5.9m in 2015 to €6.631m in 2016. This additional allocation will be available for various support measures, including funding for island companies. As the Deputy will be aware, this service was provided by the Department of Environment, Community and Local Government up to May 2015. It is intended that the same level of support will be made available for these companies in 2016 as was available to them in 2015.