MINISTER FOR TRANSPORT Shane Ross has accepted a request from Michael Healy-Rae to meet locals from Valentia island seeking to save their ferry service.
The ferry is due to be decommissioned in 2018, due to the boat’s old age, and funding is required to help meet the cost of purchasing a new one.
According to a statement from Healy-Rae, it is expected that Ross will meet locals in the first weeks of the new year.
Speaking to TheJournal.ie, Richard Foran, who operates the Valentia Island Ferry, said that losing the ferry would destroy tourism on the island.
“We have the bridge to the mainland on the other side of the island, but the main town of the island is on the other side,” he said. “Losing the ferry would force businesses there to close down. The ferry is the main way to get into the town.”
The ferry has been running for over 20 years, and has been “fantastic” for the area, according to Foran. However, it is has become clear a new boat is required.
The new ferry will cost €3 million, with householders and businesses from the area able to supply the first €1 million towards the price.
Foran added: “We run the ferry from March to October, and this year we had 250,000 passengers. It’s a vital part of tourist infrastructure for south Kerry.”
Located near the Skellig Ring, tourism in the south Kerry area has exploded in recent times, with the shooting of the Star Wars films, and an endorsement from travel guide The Lonely Planet providing a boost to visitor numbers in the region.
Healy-Rae thanked Ross for agreeing to meet the locals. He said: “The Minister has shown great concern and interest on this issue. Despite his busy schedule, I am grateful he will take the time to give attention to this.”
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