Recent developments, especially with regard to fuel prices increases and other world economic changes, present the aviation industry, including Aer Lingus, with significant challenges.
It is very much in Ireland's interest that Aer Lingus remains a strong competitive provider of air services to and from Ireland. However, it is an independent company and has to make decisions on a commercial basis taking account of the current operating environment. The company has publicly indicated that it is undertaking a root-and-branch review of its entire cost base in an effort to further reduce costs and remain competitive. I await the outcome of the current discussions between Aer Lingus and the Shannon Airport Authority regarding transatlantic services operating from Shannon.
In January last, in conjunction with the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism, I published the Economic and Tourism Development Plan for the Shannon catchment area. The purpose of the Plan is to assist the region in responding to the challenges and opportunities emerging in the context of full liberalisation of the transatlantic aviation market and the phasing out of the Shannon stop under the Open Skies agreement. An important element of the Action Plan is a new tourism-marketing initiative for the area, which is being implemented by Tourism Ireland in close consultation with key tourism industry interests in the area, Shannon Development and the Fáilte Ireland Regions.
In addition, as I have indicated in response to Question No. 708 from the Deputy, I am currently seeking to finalise an Inter-Governmental Agreement with the USA on the introduction of full pre-clearance facilities at Shannon and Dublin Airports.