Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 20 June 2023
233. Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Transport if he has concluded his consideration of the Derry City Airport’s economic assessment and supporting materials for a Dublin/Derry air route submitted to his Department in December 2022; and the progress he has made in delivering on the air connectivity review commitment under the New Decade, New Approach agreement since taking up office in 2020. [29788/23]
View answerI thank the Deputy for her continued interest in this matter.
In the context of supporting greater connectivity on the island of Ireland, the Government agreed ‘to take forward a review of the potential for Government support to renewed viable air routes from Cork to Belfast and Dublin to Derry, working with the UK Government and Northern Ireland Executive to deliver improved connections as a priority’ as part of its commitments under New Decade New Approach.
As the Deputy is aware my Department has progressed a desk-based review, which myself and Minister Ryan are considering in consultation with Government colleagues. Also being taken into consideration is the material most recently provided by City of Derry Airport (CODA).
I can advise the Deputy that I recently met with management of CODA in Derry on 22 May and that engagement on this matter will continue between my Department, the Northern Ireland Executive and the UK Government, as appropriate.
