To ask the Minister for Infrastructure, given there is not enough indoor passenger capacity to provide protection from inclement weather, what plans are in place to protect the daily foot passengers on the Strangford Ferry.

Arrangements for additional morning and afternoon passenger-only sailings were put in place to facilitate the transportation of the large number of school children who need to travel at the same time. The use of the main open deck as an outdoor area, reduces the risk of Covid-19 transmission, while also maximising the number of passengers who can be carried. Unfortunately in applying the public health advice, this does mean that on occasions passengers may be exposed to inclement weather conditions on the 7 minute journey. Foot passengers are therefore recommended to wear suitable clothing.

Officials have explored options for putting additional shelter in place but no safe and practical option has as yet been identified.