asked the Minister for Tourism and Transport the proposals if any, he has for the expansion and development of Aer Lingus, in the light of the new EC air transport policy as agreed by the Council of Ministers on 7 December 1987; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Aer Lingus Development.
5.
It is a matter for Aer Lingus themselves, in the first instance, to draw up plans to avail of the opportunities presented by the air transport package adopted by the EC Council of Ministers on 7 December 1987. I understand that the company will shortly submit proposals to me for the development of their services and I await those proposals with interest.
In the first instance, Commissioner Sutherland must be commended on the achievements he has spearheaded in this area in Europe. I hope the Minister can give some assurance to the House that he will give Aer Lingus every favourable consideration in their applications for new routes and facilities and that they will not be hampered in any way by Government decisions not to make available such resources to Aer Lingus as would be necessary to pursue such applications.
I am pleased that the Deputy has put on record the appreciation of the House for the efforts of Commissioner Sutherland in helping us reach a final agreement on a very difficult package. I can assure the Deputy that no obstacle will be put in the way of Aer Lingus in developing to the full their commercial potential.
Have Aer Lingus given any indication as to when they expect to submit proposals to the Minister in regard to these routes?
As I have said in my reply, they will shortly submit proposals.
Will the Minister indicate to what degree and in what regard he has control over what Aer Lingus may do in matters of this kind?
As I have said also in my reply, the board of Aer Lingus will in the first instance develop their proposals and then they will come to me. My policy will be to — I hate to use the word — maximise the opportunities for airlines from this country.
Will Aer Lingus have priority when it comes to tendering for these routes and selecting the routes or will it be open to all airlines operating out of this country to do so?
I expect that the principles we will follow will be ones of equity with regard to all operators.