Rathlin Island to Ballycastle ferry closes with immediate effect

The company operating the ferry service between Rathlin Island and Ballycastle has ceased trading due to "financial difficulty".

In a statement, Rathlin Island Ferry Limited (RIFL) expressed "regret" as it announced the last sailing will depart Ballycastle at 4pm today.

"Because of financial difficulty an Insolvency Practitioner has been appointed to place the company into liquidation."

Rathlin Island has a permanent population of around 150 people, and is home rich wildlife including the 'Rathlin Puffin' and 'Golden Hare.'

A spokesperson for the Department for Infrastructure said:

"Following several weeks of engagement between the Department and Rathlin Island Ferry Limited in relation to matters arising from the contract between them, including the financial position of the ferry company, the Department received notification today from the company that it is to cease trading with immediate effect.

"The Department recognises the importance of the ferry service for the local community and has been taking forward work on potential contingency arrangements with the expectation that these could be implemented urgently, and which include seeking to protect the interests of the staff as far as possible.

"It is our plan to provide a further update on these arrangements as soon as possible."

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