Vol. 510 No. 1
22 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Public Enterprise her views on the adequacy of air transport provided to cater for Donegal north east; the plans, if any, she has to advance this; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21713/99]
As the Deputy is aware, Carrickfinn Airport in Donegal is supported by the Government by way of a public service obligation route under the essential air services programme. The daily air service to Dublin is currently operated by Aer Arann and a condition of the scheme is that the maximum fare is limited to £89. The current scheme is for a three year period, which ends in early 2001, but I am, of course, keeping any proposals in relation to a new PSO scheme under review.
The catchment area of Derry Airport does, of course, encompass the east and north east of Donegal and this presents a further air transport corridor for the people of these areas. Under the Peace and Reconciliation Programme, a total of £1.528 million in aid was allocated to that airport in July last from my Department's Vote towards the cost of a runway extension and assorted works.
