Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 1 February 2024
180. Deputy Pádraig Mac Lochlainn asked the Minister for Transport if he has concluded his consideration of Derry City Airport’s economic assessment and supporting materials for a Dublin to 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. [4744/24]
View answerIn the context of supporting greater connectivity on the island of Ireland, the Irish 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 in this regard, which Minister Ryan and I are considering in consultation with Government colleagues. I would like to assure the Deputy that the supporting material provided by City of Derry Airport (CODA) has also been taken into consideration.
Engagement will also continue with the NI Executive and British Government as appropriate, and with stakeholders in the North West. Recent engagement has included my meeting with management of CODA in May last year. I also hope to meet with the airport owners, Derry City and Strabane District Council, in the coming weeks.
