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Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 15 Dec 1988

Vol. 385 No. 8

Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Cuban Airlines.

5.

asked the Minister for Tourism and Transport the latest position regarding discussions with the Cuban authorities on an agreement on passenger rights for Cuban airlines at Shannon airport; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

In June 1987 the Cuban authorities indicated that they had an interest in negotiating an air services agreement with Ireland which would make provision for Cuban airlines to operate services to and from Shannon airport. My Department responded to the effect that Ireland would be very happy to negotiate such an agreement.

Since then I have had discussions with Cuban officials in the matter and I have confirmed that Ireland will be happy to conclude an air services agreement and that I am prepared to authorise Cuban airlines to commence services at Shannon in advance of a formal agreement should they wish to do so. A request for rights to operate such a service is awaited. In the meantime, discussions about the terms of an air services agreement are expected to commence early in 1989.

Has the Minister had any indication from the Cuban airlines as to whether or not they intend to take up the service in advance of the formal agreement being signed?

They have not given any indication so far. I had a visit from a Cuban official some time ago but there were some internal problems that delayed any advance in this area. The position is as I outlined in my reply. As the Deputy knows, discussions with regard to the formal and lasting agreement are under way.

Can the Minister say whether or not the involvement of Cuban airlines in providing a service to and from Shannon would result in their investing money in facilities there? We are aware of the extensive benefits gained from the presence of Aeroflot at Shannon. Is it envisaged that there will be any such spin-off from the involvement of Cuban airlines at that airport?

We would not be promoting the idea were it not for the fact that we are expecting to get benefits from it. It links in, to a certain extent, with the position regarding Aeroflot but there is a slight problem. Cuban airlines may get their fuel from Aeroflot at Shannon but Aeroflot are anxious to get hard currency for all sales there. At present Cubana are more interested in some form of barter which is difficult in the circumstances.

Could I ask——

A very brief question, Deputy. I want to make some progress on other questions also.

Will the Minister assure the House that every encouragement will be offered by his Department for a speedy finalisation of those negotiations?

I can give the Deputy that assurance.

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