Irish government makes further proposals in response to Toraigh island ferry concerns

Two important proposals are now being looked into following concerns raised by locals and groups supporting them in regard to the replacement ferry service to the island of Toraigh. Toraigh, is 14.5 kilometres (9.0 miles) off the north-west coast of County Donegal (Contae Dhún na nGall) in the north-west of Ireland. The people of Toraigh had mounted a very high profile campaign against a 40 year old vessel, Queen of Aran, becoming the replacement ferry imposed on them by the Department of the Gaeltacht. Significant safety and reliability concerns had been raised.

Now it has been confirmed by Minister for the Irish language, Gaeltacht and the Islands, Joe McHugh, that talks are underway on the possibility of expanding the helicopter service to the island. The Minister also said that the Government is committed to designing and constructing a new purpose built ferry to operate from Magheraroarty to Toraigh. He reported that consultation work on the project has begun.  In the meantime the Queen of Aran, along with a smaller vessel is operating on the route.