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Air Services Provision

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 27 March 2013

Wednesday, 27 March 2013

Questions (329, 330, 334)

Bernard Durkan

Question:

329. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his preferred options for the future development of Ireland as an international hub for air transport; the extent to which he expects the various airlines to participate in such a project with resultant economic benefit; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15555/13]

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Bernard Durkan

Question:

330. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his preferred options for the future development of the airline passenger industry with particular reference to the role he sees for the major carriers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15556/13]

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Bernard Durkan

Question:

334. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his preferred options in regard to the future development of the air transport passenger sector with particular reference to the respective roles of Aer Lingus and Ryanair and any possible merger; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15560/13]

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Written answers

I propose to take Questions Nos. 329, 330 and 334 together.

The overarching goal of our current strategy for the aviation sector as outlined in my Department's Statement of Strategy 2011-2014 is to ensure that it supports Ireland's economic and social goals in a safe, competitive, cost effective and sustainable manner and ensures maximum connectivity between Ireland and the rest of the world.

Within this context, one of my key priorities is the successful restructuring of Shannon airport. A key initiative for the new merged Shannon entity will be the development of an international aviation services centre in and around the airport.

In a wider national context, the Deputy may be aware that I have launched a process to develop a national aviation policy. Taking account of the issues that were raised at an initial Conference late last year, I published an Issues paper for consultation on my Department's website on 1 March 2013. Rather than stating any preferred options, I have invited contributions from the industry and all stakeholders about what measures should be included in a new aviation policy to facilitate the continued development of all aspects of the sector in Ireland and to maximise its contribution to the economy.

Following receipt of submissions, a draft National Aviation Policy Statement will be issued in the second half of 2013. That will provide further opportunity for stakeholder input before the adoption of the policy in early 2014.

Questions Nos. 331 and 332 answered with Question No. 58.
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