In a statement today, Liscannor Ferry company Limited, known as the Doolin2Aran ferries and owned by the Garrihy family, has agreed to sell its ferry service to the rival O'Brian ferry company, known as Baid Farantoireachta An Chosta, for an undisclosed sum.
Doolin2Aran ferries has been owned and run by the Garrighy family, brothers Joe, PJ, Eugene and Donie, for over 20 years, and had a long family association fishing in the North Clare area prior to establishing the Cliffs of Moher cruises and the Aran islands ferry service in 1999. Director and owner of the Liscannor ferry company Eugene Garrighy said:"We felt the timing was now right after discussions within our family. My father and brothers are steeped in the traditions and connections between the Aran Islands and Doolin, starting with fishing and ultimately moving on to the ferry business 23 years ago.
"We have always had a competitive but strong working relationship with the O'Brien family throughout the years and we wish them the best for the continual growth of the business. As part of the agreement, we ensured that our employees who wish to will transfer to the new owners.
Flashbacks of hell on that ferry.