asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he is aware that the cessation by Aer Lingus of their racehorse ferry service to and from England is causing much inconvenience and loss to Irish owners and trainers, and, if so, if he will make representations to Aer Lingus with a view to having the service resumed, if possible.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Air Ferry Service for Racehorses.
While Aer Lingus are fully conscious of their duties as the national air carrier, they must have regard to commercial considerations in planning their operations. The company never operated a racehorse ferry service, but they did carry live stock, including racehorses, on their normal freight services and on charter flights. They found, however, that the volume of this traffic was not sufficient to justify the maintenance of the aircraft and equipment most suitable for this type of traffic. I do not consider that this is a matter in relation to which I could seek to interfere with the discretion of Aer Lingus.