asked the Minister for Transport and Power if he will make a statement outlining the restrictions placed on Aerlinte flights to the US, so that the decision not to permit US airlines to fly into Dublin may be appreciated.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - US Airlines: Flights into Dublin.
8.
Under the Air Transport Agreement of 1945 between Ireland and the US, airlines of the US have full traffic rights at Shannon on routes US-Ireland and beyond in both directions; the Irish airline has traffic rights to New York (via Boston) and to Chicago, but may not serve Chicago by any flights serving New York or Boston. The principal and overriding reason for refusing the entry of US airlines to Dublin is the Government's policy of giving priority to the development of western tourist areas served by Shannon Airport and maintaining that airport as Ireland's only transatlantic gateway.
In order to set aside any speculation, would the Minister say if we are to understand that no change is contemplated in the Government's policy of Shannon flights only?
No change is being contemplated.