David Andrews
Question:321 Mr. Andrews asked the Minister for Transport, Energy and Communications the reason there is no air-link between Ireland and Canada; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8800/97]
Written Answers - Ireland-Canada Air Link.
The Deputy may be aware that for some years now charter services have operated between Toronto and both Shannon and Dublin during the peak summer season. Scheduled air services between Ireland and Canada are governed by the terms of the Ireland-Canada bilateral air services agreement. This agreement provides that Irish airlines may provide scheduled services between Shannon and Montreal and Gander, and that Canadian airlines may provide services between Montreal and Shannon.
It is a matter in the first instance for air carriers, having regard to their own commercial interests to decide whether to operate particular air services. However, I am aware that airlines on both sides have cited the lack of direct access to Toronto and Dublin as factors in their reluctance to operate scheduled services. This is not to say that if direct access to Toronto and Dublin were permitted, airlines on both sides would necessarily start up services immediately. Commercial considerations would always be paramount for the airlines.