Displaying items by tag: Rathlin ferry

30th April 2023

Ferry Fares to Rathlin Island to Increase for First Time in 10 Years

Ferry fares to Rathlin Island off Co. Antrim are set to increase for the first time in 10 years.

The announcement was made by the Department for Infrastructure (DfI) which stated that a standard single passenger fare on the Ballycastle-Church Bay route will rise from £6 to £8.

For those travelling by car on board the 6-vehicle capacity Spirit of Rathlin, the standard single car fare will increase from £10.30 to £15.

The 40 minute route is also served by the passenger only catamaran the Rathlin Express which takes just 25 minutes to complete the crossing.

Half price fares for children will not be affected and SmartPass concessions will also be available.

As for the island's population of around 150 residents, they will continue to receive discounts of at least 50% of the standard fares.

The DfI added that the fares will "be subject to a statutory 30-day notice period that is due to commence on 9 May 2023".

More from The Irish News on the route that is operated on behalf of the DfI, see related story.

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About the Loughs Agency

The Loughs Agency is a governmental body established under the 1998 Agreement between the Government of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and the Government of Ireland. The Agency's goal is to provide sustainable social, economic, and environmental benefits by effectively conserving, managing, promoting, and developing the fisheries and marine resources of the Foyle and Carlingford areas.

The Agency's governing legislation confers several specific functions, including the promotion of development of Lough Foyle and Carlingford Lough for commercial and recreational purposes in respect of marine, fishery, and aquaculture matters. Moreover, the Agency is responsible for managing, conserving, protecting, improving, and developing the inland fisheries of the Foyle and Carlingford areas. Additionally, the Agency has the task of developing and licensing aquaculture, as well as the development of marine tourism.

The Loughs Agency reports to the North South Ministerial Council and its government Sponsor Departments, the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) in Northern Ireland, and the Department of the Environment, Climate, and Communications (DECC) in Ireland. The Departments fund the Agency on an equal basis.

The Loughs Agency's focus on sustainable development is expected to have a positive impact on the economy, environment, and local communities in the Foyle and Carlingford areas. The Agency's efforts to conserve and enhance the region's marine resources, including fisheries and aquaculture, are expected to benefit local communities, promote tourism, and contribute to economic growth.

In conclusion, the Loughs Agency plays a vital role in promoting the sustainable social, economic, and environmental development of the Foyle and Carlingford areas. Its work on marine conservation and development is crucial in ensuring the long-term viability of the region's natural resources and in promoting sustainable economic growth.