Close to €10,000 is being made available to Comharchumann na nOileán Beag to commence a new heavy cargo service that will serve 6 small islands off the coast of Donegal.

The contract is for a year and 8 sailings will be made available to Inis Bó Finne, Gabhla, Inis Oirthear, Inis Caorach, Inis Mhic a Doirn agus Inis Fraoigh.

During that period, an assessment will be made of the future demand for the service.

Announcing this new funding today, Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary TD, said he is delighted to provide this funding to Comharchumann na nOileán Beag to establish this new service.

“Cargo services are of great importance and although this is a small service, it will have a positive impact on the small communities residing on these islands. This service will ensure that they will have access to a continuous, regular and affordable cargo service for the first time.

“There is a lot of construction work going on these small islands at the moment, both new buildings being built and old buildings being renovated. I am sure that this new service will be a great help to the community.”

The service will be managed by Comharchumann na nOileán Beag and they will ensure that the service is delivered and meets the needs of the islanders.