A new fast ferry which can accommodate nearly 100 passengers has been commissioned to serve Cape Clear Island and provide adventure tourism trips around the Fastnet Rock lighthouse.

If islanders on Cape Clear fail to recruit two teachers, their 150-year-old school may have to close. That would have serious implications for the community’s future.

Residents of one of the country’s largest inhabited islands have warned of an emerging crisis after power cuts effectively crippled their multi-million euro harbour storm gates.

President Michael D Higgins has stressed the need for the State to protect and sustain the life and culture of Ireland’s islands.

A multi-million euro plan which includes replacing the water pipe network on an island hit by water shortages last year has been unveiled.

A ferry business move from one far-flung island corner of Ireland to the other brings the country’s most southerly pub and restaurant up for sale, on a hugely-popular tourist island, with a €250,000 asking price.