Last month, it was announced that the Dursey Island cable car service will be paused from 1 April for essential repairs. That was a considerable shock to the island's residents, to locals who farm on the island and to the local tourism sector, as the cable car is a significant attraction on the Beara Peninsula. The issue is the absence of a replacement service with the closure of the cable car next Friday. We need a publicly funded alternative service but no one is taking responsibility. The Minister for Rural and Community Development informed me that Cork County Council is responsible for any replacement. On Monday, however, Cork county councillors were informed that it is the Department’s responsibility. The only option for residents and landowners is to use private boats on a dangerous stretch of water. Some people obviously do not have private boats. There was a clear need for this to be financed and for a Minister to intervene. I would appreciate any comments from the Minister on this issue.

I thank Deputy Cairns very much for raising this issue. I am aware how important the issue of access is for the constituents the Deputy represents. I will contact the Minister for Transport, Deputy Eamon Ryan, who is involved with this issue to see if any further help can be given. I know that his Department is aware of this and is trying to help. Equally, however, I know that some of the proposals that had been brought forward by it and the actions so far have not had the effect the Deputy wants. I will raise the issue with the Minister to see if I can provide further information to the Deputy during the day, or even during this session of questions to me.

I thank the Minister very much.