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13/05/2009
Cross-Border Ferry Thrown Lifeline
There is renewed hope today that an innovative cross-border ferry service that has been under threat may yet remain afloat.
The Lough Foyle Ferry Company used to receive an annual subsidy, which has now run out. Last year, losses of €56,000 were sustained, with estimates that it could lose nearly €224,000 this year.
But, the ferry will now no longer be designated as an 'international service', removing what has been described as an "unnecessary security regime" which placed a huge financial burden on the authorities.
Sinn Féin's Conor Murphy, Minister for Regional Development yesterday convened a cross-party roundtable discussion which included representatives from Coleraine, Limavady and Donegal Councils to discuss the future of the threatened service.
Mr Murphy said the Irish Republic's Transport Minister, Jim Fitzpatrick, has agreed to recognise it as an inland service.
He said it meant the "elaborate and very costly security measures applied by the British transport authorities can now be substantially reduced."
He said it was a "significant step" in securing the ferry's future.
Speaking after the meeting, Sinn Féin colleague and MLA, Francie Brolly said: "Sinn Féin are fully committed to this very important ferry service and its long-term viability.
"Thankfully Minister Conor Murphy has secured the commitment to remove such impediments and restrictions which means the associated costs will no longer be imposed.
"This will remove the financial burden but also allow Council to provide other services which local ratepayers actually need," he commented.
Sinn Féin Mayor of Limavady, Brenda Chivers also welcomed the news: "We welcome today's announcement, but we now must ensure that the long-term future of the service is guaranteed. This will involve the local Councils working together and securing its financial viability now and for the future."
The ferry has been operating between Magilligan and Greencastle in Co Donegal for the last seven years.
Back in February, Mr Murphy said replacement funding "was not possible" because the ferry runs between two jurisdictions and also government budgets were so tight.
"I do recognise the importance of the ferry service in the local area and, despite the limitations of my own department, I think that at the very least there is a need for interested parties to explore more fully whether there are any options available which might help the service," he said, at the time.
SDLP MLA John Dallat also commented in February that the Northern Ireland Assembly and the Dáil in the Republic of Ireland should both step in.
See: SOS For Sinking Ferry Service
(BMcC/JM)
The Lough Foyle Ferry Company used to receive an annual subsidy, which has now run out. Last year, losses of €56,000 were sustained, with estimates that it could lose nearly €224,000 this year.
But, the ferry will now no longer be designated as an 'international service', removing what has been described as an "unnecessary security regime" which placed a huge financial burden on the authorities.
Sinn Féin's Conor Murphy, Minister for Regional Development yesterday convened a cross-party roundtable discussion which included representatives from Coleraine, Limavady and Donegal Councils to discuss the future of the threatened service.
Mr Murphy said the Irish Republic's Transport Minister, Jim Fitzpatrick, has agreed to recognise it as an inland service.
He said it meant the "elaborate and very costly security measures applied by the British transport authorities can now be substantially reduced."
He said it was a "significant step" in securing the ferry's future.
Speaking after the meeting, Sinn Féin colleague and MLA, Francie Brolly said: "Sinn Féin are fully committed to this very important ferry service and its long-term viability.
"Thankfully Minister Conor Murphy has secured the commitment to remove such impediments and restrictions which means the associated costs will no longer be imposed.
"This will remove the financial burden but also allow Council to provide other services which local ratepayers actually need," he commented.
Sinn Féin Mayor of Limavady, Brenda Chivers also welcomed the news: "We welcome today's announcement, but we now must ensure that the long-term future of the service is guaranteed. This will involve the local Councils working together and securing its financial viability now and for the future."
The ferry has been operating between Magilligan and Greencastle in Co Donegal for the last seven years.
Back in February, Mr Murphy said replacement funding "was not possible" because the ferry runs between two jurisdictions and also government budgets were so tight.
"I do recognise the importance of the ferry service in the local area and, despite the limitations of my own department, I think that at the very least there is a need for interested parties to explore more fully whether there are any options available which might help the service," he said, at the time.
SDLP MLA John Dallat also commented in February that the Northern Ireland Assembly and the Dáil in the Republic of Ireland should both step in.
See: SOS For Sinking Ferry Service
(BMcC/JM)
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24 April 2009
SOS For Sinking Ferry Service
As a scenic cross border transport link remains in jeopardy, a Coleraine Sinn Féin councillor has urged NI Enterprise Minister Arlene Foster to take action to save the ferry. Billy Leonard wants the DUP Minister to play her part along with other Stormont Executive colleagues to save the Magilligan ferry service to Greencastle.
SOS For Sinking Ferry Service
As a scenic cross border transport link remains in jeopardy, a Coleraine Sinn Féin councillor has urged NI Enterprise Minister Arlene Foster to take action to save the ferry. Billy Leonard wants the DUP Minister to play her part along with other Stormont Executive colleagues to save the Magilligan ferry service to Greencastle.
30 March 2006
Rathlin Ferry to begin early tourist season sailings
Visitors to Rathlin will be welcomed early this year as the new summer timetable for the island's ferry service will commence a month earlier than usual.
Rathlin Ferry to begin early tourist season sailings
Visitors to Rathlin will be welcomed early this year as the new summer timetable for the island's ferry service will commence a month earlier than usual.
01 October 2009
Foyle Ferry Refloated
A lifeline has been thrown to a fast-sinking cross-border car ferry service. The crisis-hit Lough Foyle Ferry - which was due to cease services this week for good - is to continue until at least Christmas, on the understanding that new funding is found.
Foyle Ferry Refloated
A lifeline has been thrown to a fast-sinking cross-border car ferry service. The crisis-hit Lough Foyle Ferry - which was due to cease services this week for good - is to continue until at least Christmas, on the understanding that new funding is found.
06 February 2009
Foyle Ferry Finance Bid Fails
News that the Irish government has firmly ruled out providing any money towards ensuring the Lough Foyle cross-border ferry service will operate this coming season has proved a further setback for the service's supporters.
Foyle Ferry Finance Bid Fails
News that the Irish government has firmly ruled out providing any money towards ensuring the Lough Foyle cross-border ferry service will operate this coming season has proved a further setback for the service's supporters.
24 September 2009
Fresh Bid To Rescue Sinking Border Ferry
A struggling cross-border ferry service is this week the focus of a new rescue attempt. As financial problems threaten to swamp the Foyle Ferry, local councillors - all members of the Social Democratic and Labour Party (SDLP) - are attempting to throw a lifeline to the ailing cross-border ferry.
Fresh Bid To Rescue Sinking Border Ferry
A struggling cross-border ferry service is this week the focus of a new rescue attempt. As financial problems threaten to swamp the Foyle Ferry, local councillors - all members of the Social Democratic and Labour Party (SDLP) - are attempting to throw a lifeline to the ailing cross-border ferry.
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
