Vol. 555 No. 3
110 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Transport if his attention has been drawn to concerns reported to have been expressed by air traffic controllers in the United Kingdom that low cost airlines, under pressure to meet schedules, were endangering passengers by ignoring air traffic controllers; if there have been reports of similar practices here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18243/02]
I am aware that a UK air traffic controller made a confidential report about low cost airlines earlier this year. I am not aware of any similar allegations from Irish air traffic controllers. Any allegations of this nature should, in the first instance, be referred to the Irish Aviation Authority which regulates air traffic service provision in Ireland as well as Irish registered airlines. I am satisfied that, under the regulation of the authority, Irish aviation maintains very high safety standards.
