It is Government policy to encourage as wide a range as possible of reliable, regular and competitive air services to and from Ireland. The operation of air services within Europe has been totally liberalised by the EU and EU policy and provisions do not distinguish or discriminate between traditional carriers and low cost operators.
Liberalisation of the European air transport sector has ensured that fares, routes and frequency of services operated by carriers, including Irish carriers, are entirely commercial decisions for each company. Increased competition between air carriers has resulted in cheaper air fares and more choice, which Members will agree is good news for consumers.
The Doganis report on aviation and tourism issues which was published last week suggested that airport managements must welcome low cost airlines as an essential and integral part of an airport's business. The Deputy will be aware that the Government has considered and noted the principal conclusions and recommendations of the Doganis report and agreed that Aer Rianta should be asked to proceed immediately with the provision of a rapid turn-around facility at Dublin Airport to meet the specific needs of all carriers operating at the lower fares end of the market. It is noteworthy that in addition to Ryanair, Aer Lingus and Cityjet also expressed strong support for the potential use of such a facility.