asked the Minister for Communications the number of Aer Lingus flights since January 1984 which were scheduled to stop at Shannon and which did not do so; the reasons for overflying; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
81.
Written Answers. - Overflying of Shannon Airport.
80.
asked the Minister for Communications if he is aware that Aer Lingus are constantly overflying Shannon airport; if he is specifically aware that overflights occurred on 7 January 1984; 12 January 1984; 13 January 1984; 16 January 1984; 19 January 1984; if he is aware that the excuses made by Aer Lingus for these overflights are not acceptable to the relevant authorities at Shannon; and the steps he proposes to take to preserve the present status of Shannon Airport.
I propose to take Questions Nos. 80 and 81 together. It is established Government policy that Shannon Airport is Ireland's sole transatlantic gateway and will remain so. I am informed that since January 1984, Aer Lingus aircraft operating transatlantic services overflew Shannon Airport on 16 occasions. The overwhelming majority of these overflights was caused by prevailing weather conditions at the airport, due to either heavy cross-winds or fog. In all cases, the decision to overfly was taken by the captain of the aircraft in the interests of the safety of the passengers and crew and only after detailed consultations had taken place, where appropriate, with the meteorological service. I also can confirm that Aer Lingus are fully aware of Government policy in relation to Shannon Airport and that I as Minister responsible for the execution of this policy would not be prepared to countenance any change involving a downgrading of Shannon.