asked the Minister for Transport and Power the losses in revenue anticipated by Aer Lingus in the current year.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Aer Lingus Revenue Loss.
3.
The air companies announced in January last that they were budgeting in the current year for total revenue of £45 m, representing an increase of 11 per cent on 1971-72.
I am now informed by the air companies that, in view of the continuing unrest in Northern Ireland, it does not appear as if that growth will be achieved. The air companies will be in a better position later in the summer to indicate the probable level of total revenue for the year.
Have they made any estimate of what the loss may be?
It is a very unpredictable situation, politically and commercially, as the Deputy will appreciate.
Has any particular figure been mentioned to the Minister?
At this stage, no. It is impossible to predict how the situation will develop. It all depends on the political solution to problems we all wish to see solved.
By comparison with last year's bookings would it not be possible to make an estimate?
There is a fall. Because of the political situation there is not the growth anticipated.
Is there a fall?
No fall, but there is not the growth either.