asked the Minister for Tourism and Transport if he has seen the remarks of the Chairman of the Irish Counties Travel Committee, and of the Chairman of the Wexford Association, in London recently, commenting on remarks made by him regarding the cost of air travel between Ireland and England; if he is satisfied with air fare costs between England and Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Cross-Channel Air Fares.
118.
I have seen recent press reports about the remarks referred to by the Deputy.
In replying to a question by Deputy Belton on this subject as recently as 1 November, I pointed out that the aim is to keep air fares as low as possible. To this end a number of reduced fares have been introduced on cross-channel routes, including special reductions for families and an advance booking (APEX) fare at, for example £48 return London/-Dublin.
Having regard to the overall needs of the travelling public and the necessity to operate year round air services economically I am satisfied that the cross-channel fare levels are not unreasonable.