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Dáil
‹ An tOrd Gnó - Order of Business

Dursey cable car closure

Summary

Deputy Collins raises the suspension of the Dursey cable car and suggests a temporary ferry service so tourism can continue. The Taoiseach notes the repair closure and asks him to explain the local solution.

At Cork County Council level there was shock and dismay at the announcement that the Dursey cable car will have to be suspended due to emergency repairs needed from 1 April until November 2022. This, coupled with An Taisce and some crowd called BirdWatch Ireland forcing a judicial review on planning given recently for a €10 million community development scheme, is leaving locals who have communicated with me in shock. There is a local solution. Unfortunately, we cannot question what is wrong with the cable car. That is beyond me or the Taoiseach or anybody else. There is a local solution here that needs Cork County Council, and the Minister, Deputy Humphreys, who has responsibility for islands, to come together to find the funds and the solution to all work together for this to happen. This will enable the Dursey cable car to continue this year. A local solution is possible. Is the Taoiseach willing to work with the locals?

Comment on this

There is a judicial review in respect of the proposal. Is that what the Deputy is talking about?

Comment on this

No, I am talking about the Dursey cable car being closed for the summer months.

Comment on this

For repairs.

Comment on this

Yes. There is a local solution that could be accommodated by all if there were funds for it.

Comment on this

Maybe the Deputy might reveal the local solution to me.

Comment on this

I am quite happy to do that. There might be a ferry service provided while the cable car is closed so that tourism can continue in Dursey Island, which is of huge importance.

Comment on this