asked the Minister for Transport and Power if he will give further details regarding the increase in Aer Lingus air fares between this country and Spain; and the reasons given by the Spanish Government for the increase.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Air Fares to Spain.
5.
Fares and rates on international air services are settled by unanimous agreement among the member airlines of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) subject to Government approval in each country. Following devaluation IATA held a special conference. It was agreed that air fares from devaluing countries, including Ireland, to non-devaluing countries should be increased so as to keep the fares in line with the fares for the reverse journeys. These increases, if implemented without exception, would upset the balanced pattern of air fares to resort areas in France, Italy and Portugal on the one hand and to Spain on the other. This was not acceptable to the airlines of France, Italy and Portugal who insisted on corresponding increases in air fares to Spain. To achieve the necessary unanimity, the other airlines concerned agreed to compromise increases in fares to Spain. These are—
Normal fare—16? per cent
Excursion fare—8½ per cent
Inclusive tour fare—5 per cent
The excursion and inclusive tour fares are used by most travellers.
Aer Lingus have sought my approval for these increases and I do not anticipate withholding it. I am not aware of the attitude of the Spanish Government.