asked the Minister for Transport and Power if the CIE cruising boats on Lough Derg at Killaloe, County Clare have been sold; if so, the reason for the sale; and if it is intended to replace them.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - CIE Cruising Boats.
142.
I have been in formed by CIE that by notice in the Press on 22nd January, 1974, tenders were invited by the board for the sale of the two boats used for Shannon cruises. Tenders have been received by the board and are at present being examined. It is not intended to replace the boats.
As indicated in my replies to previous questions on the subject on 8th May, and 26th June, 1973, CIE consider that the purpose of their initial involvement in cruises on the Shannon, which was to engender an interest in the Shannon waterway as a sailing and cruising attraction, has been achieved and that there is now no reason for them to continue to provide this service which for the board is a loss-making one.
The Minister has stated that CIE generated interest in Shannon cruising but why did CIE stop their participation because they are the most capable people of generating all-round tours including boating and trains? Why did CIE stop now when the tourist industry is at risk?
CIE's view is that they have done their job of generating interest in the Shannon. Any of us who have been along the Shannon in recent years know how much more active the boating business is than it was 18 or 19 years ago when CIE started this service. CIE feel they have done their priming job and that it is now something which should be carried along by private enterprise.
If CIE, as the Minister stated, ran this service at a loss how does he think private enterprise can make a profit? Is there something wrong with the management?
The question of whether somebody carries it on or not depends on whether they are confident of making a profit. That is something which is, as yet, uncertain. At the time the cruises were undertaken originally, and the boats were provided, there was no boating on the Shannon. The activities of CIE have got interest going and many people who travelled on these cruisers are now using their own smaller boats. The main objective has been achieved.
Cruising, therefore, is not economic?
Has the Minister any information to indicate the amount lost by CIE on the venture?
The average for the last five years was £7,200 per annum. In the 1973 season the loss was £5,900, excluding the cost of overhauling the vessels which would have to be done if the cruises were to continue.
Would the Minister be prepared to publicise the fact that there is no more ideal, idyllic, or perfect holiday than a cruise on the Shannon?
Yes, certainly. I will join with the Deputy in any promotional activity he undertakes in that regard in the public interest.