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Aviation Policy

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 3 June 2020

Wednesday, 3 June 2020

Questions (965)

Cathal Crowe

Question:

965. Deputy Cathal Crowe asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will give consideration to establishing a task force to examine the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on the aviation sector and its spin-off industries; if he will consider examining the impact on Shannon Airport and its hinterlands; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9350/20]

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Written answers

My Department has maintained regular contact with the range of aviation stakeholders, including the Shannon Airport Authority, on a wide range of topics since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic crisis.

The National Civil Aviation Development Forum (NCADF) which includes representatives of the two main Irish airlines, Shannon airport, daa, regional airports, the State aviation agencies and the wider aviation value chain, is providing valuable industry input into the Department’s response to the crisis.

I am also considering options for deeper engagement and dialogue with the aviation industry with a view to assisting the recovery of the sector.

I fully appreciate and acknowledge the important role of Shannon Airport to the economy of the Midwest region and indeed nationally. The importance of Shannon Airport is acknowledged in the National Aviation Policy (NAP). The NAP recognises the strategic importance of Shannon for connectivity for the mid-West region and as a gateway to the Wild Atlantic Way.

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.

My Department continues to work closely with Shannon Group to ensure that the Company, including Shannon Airport, will be well positioned operationally to contribute to the post pandemic recovery when it commences.

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