asked the Minister for Transport and Power whether Aer Lingus have re-examined the possibility of introducing a Birmingham to Shannon direct service; and, if not, why.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Shannon-Birmingham Air Service.
17.
I am informed by Aer Lingus that they have made a study of the traffic potential between Shannon and Birmingham and are satisfied that a direct scheduled service between these points would not be justified at present. The company are, however, keeping the matter under review.
Could the Minister say whether or not Aer Lingus have carried out a survey into the potentialities of this proposed route and, if so, what methods did they employ in carrying out the survey?
Aer Lingus did carry out a survey and they were satisfied that it would not sustain a scheduled service and they have confirmed to me that the position has not changed since January of this year when they last examined its potential traffic.
Is the Minister aware that the Shannonside Regional Tourism Organisation is of opinion that the absence of this service is having a bad effect on the flow of tourists into the Limerick and Clare region?
I am aware of the fact that it is desirable at all times for Aer Lingus to extend its services wherever there is potential traffic and I have never seen any hesitation on the part of Aer Lingus to do this and even to undertake experimental traffic which in the end was not found to be profitable and had to be cancelled. Certainly, Aer Lingus have never shown any lack of initiative in this regard.