I have raised the crisis regarding Dursey Island off Castletownbere on numerous occasions, mainly because the world-famous Dursey cable car has been suspended for number of months due to the repair works being carried out. The islanders and landowners are anxiously awaiting the cable car works completion, which has been put off due to inclement weather. I spoke to the islanders and landowners there in the past week. They have had no way on or off the island for almost two weeks. The temporary ferry service put in place has not been able to travel due to inclement weather, leaving no access to the island. This is an emergency.

A helicopter service must be put in place immediately for the people of Dursey Island so people can get food and get onto the island to feed their cattle, as well as a derrick being provided on the mainland, which the islanders have said would also help them. The people of Castletownbere and Dursey Island have been failed badly by this Government throughout this saga. There have been many promises, but little delivery.

I appreciate this is an important issue for people on Dursey Island and in Castletownbere. I do not have an update to hand and do not want to give information that may turn out to be false. However, I will get my office to follow up with the Deputy on this to see if we can find more information.