asked the Minister for Transport and Power if he is aware that air fares between Belfast and London and other English cities are substantially lower than similar fares between Dublin and the same centres in Great Britain; and if he will take steps to have these anomalies adjusted.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Air Fares to Britain.
21.
Air fares between Dublin and British centres are fixed by the International Air Transport Association, with the approval of the Governments concerned. Fares for travel from Belfast to British centres are regarded as domestic fares and as such are the sole responsibility of the British authorities just as the fares between Dublin and Shannon are a domestic matter for us. Air fares from Ireland have been receiving the constant attention of the Company and every effort will continue to be made to achieve a lower level of fares as soon as that is at all practicable and can be achieved without resort to subsidy.
I should add that Aer Lingus have in fact succeeded in maintaining a level of fares internationally which is lower than that prevailing generally in Europe.
Would the Minister not agree that where there is a difference of up to 50 per cent. we should be able to take some action?
I have already made it clear that the fares for the services running between Dublin and London are in conformity with the rules of the International Travel Association which fixes minimum fares all over the world. The services run by the B.E.A. from Belfast to London are not subject to that control. We have always believed at least up to now that on balance it has been to our advantage that Aer Lingus should belong to this association and therefore there is a discrepancy in those fares.
Would the Minister not agree that people who travel from Dublin to English centres are at some disadvantages and should be considered?
They are at some disadvantage but Aer Lingus is doing its utmost to provide an efficient and speedy service at the lowest possible fare.
A difference of 50 per cent. is very substantial.