Catherine Connolly (Galway West, Independent)
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116. To ask the Minister for Rural and Community Development further to Parliamentary Question No. 68 of 10 October 2024, if the transfer of lands from the Department to the HSE has been completed; to provide an update on the plans for the remainder of the site; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14533/25]

Dara Calleary (Mayo, Fianna Fail)
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As the Deputy is aware, the land in question, on which the Inishbofin airstrip is situated, was transfered to my Department in October 2024.

The Deputy will recall that these lands were acquired by Galway County Council on behalf of the Department by way of a Compulsory Purchase Order, which was originally initiated over 20 years ago.

The Chief State Solicitor's Office has been acting on behalf of the Department and is continuing to engage with solicitors on behalf of the HSE with regard to the part of the site that is intended for use by the HSE for a primary care centre.

I am advised that the CSSO sent contracts and maps to the HSE solicitors in August 2024, but that the HSE has indicated the transfer will be conditional on it being able to obtain planning permission.

In that regard, it is a matter for the HSE to commence the planning process in respect of any development proposed for the relevant portion of land.

With regard to the rest of the site, my Department has recently completed the installation of permanent helipad lighting on a section of the airstrip and I understand the helipad is now operational. This will ensure that the Coast Guard can conduct aeromedical evacuations all year round. My Department has no other immediate plans for the development of the site at this time.