Covid-19 Pandemic

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 23 June 2020

Tuesday, 23 June 2020

Ceisteanna (674)

Seán Haughey

Ceist:

674. Deputy Seán Haughey asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if the advice in respect of foreign travel by Irish citizens to the effect that this should only be undertaken if it is essential is being kept under review; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that airlines operating here are taking bookings from persons living here wishing to travel abroad contrary to Government advice; the rights of these passengers in these circumstances; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12019/20]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport

The Government continues to review the advice of the public health authorities in relation to foreign travel by Irish citizens and any decisions in relation to the lifting of travel restrictions will be taken on foot of that advice, in light of the evolving epidemiological situation in Europe and beyond. As there are no legal flight restrictions in place in Ireland, the operation of flights remains a commercial decision for airlines, but all Irish airlines are aware of the advice of our public health authorities.

Of course, the issue of what to do with aviation needs to be settled and I am glad to advise the Deputy that I have received an interim report from the Aviation Recovery Taskforce. It calls for travel restrictions to be reviewed and for a phased reopening of overseas air travel. I will be considering these proposals along with Cabinet colleagues this week.