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Shannon Airport Facilities

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 27 May 2020

Wednesday, 27 May 2020

Questions (814)

Noel Grealish

Question:

814. Deputy Noel Grealish asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the steps he will take to ensure that Shannon Airport is not downgraded and that when regular scheduled flights resume, a company (details supplied) continues to operate services from the airport to ensure that a service is provided on the western seaboard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7722/20]

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Written answers

I would like to thank the Deputy for his question in relation to Shannon Airport.

As we are all aware Covid-19 has had a profound and unparalleled impact on the aviation industry. In Europe, aviation movements have plummeted by about 90% while passenger traffic is 99% below comparable periods last year. Like other Irish Airports, Shannon Airport has been severely impacted by Covid-19.

The Deputy will be aware that in response to Covid-19, the Government has put in place a broad range of supports to help mitigate the effects of the crisis on our citizens and businesses. One such support is the COVID-19 Temporary Wage Subsidy Scheme. This Scheme allows employers to continue to pay their employees during the COVID-19 emergency. It aims, as we know, to keep employees registered with their employers, so that they will be able to get back to work quickly after the pandemic. Shannon Group is availing of this Scheme. Details of the full suite of Covid-19 Government funding and supports have been notified to Shannon Group for consideration.

In relation to Aer Lingus or indeed any other airline operating services from Shannon, the position is that there are currently no flight restrictions in place in Ireland and the operation of any route from Shannon, is a commercial decision for airlines, in consultation with the airport and other stakeholders. Aer Lingus has advised my Department that it will keep its schedule under review having regard to the changing circumstances.

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