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Gnáthamharc

Wednesday, 3 Feb 2021

Written Answers Nos. 122-149

Cycle to Work Scheme

Ceisteanna (122, 123, 124)

Neale Richmond

Ceist:

122. Deputy Neale Richmond asked the Minister for Transport the uptake of the bike to work scheme from its launch to 2020, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5630/21]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Neale Richmond

Ceist:

123. Deputy Neale Richmond asked the Minister for Transport the uptake of the-bike-to-work scheme from its launch to 2020; the percentage of uptake in each sector of employment such as agriculture, service and industry in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5631/21]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Neale Richmond

Ceist:

124. Deputy Neale Richmond asked the Minister for Transport if he plans to further enhance the-bike-to-work scheme in 2021; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5632/21]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

I propose to take Questions Nos. 122, 123 and 124 together.

As the Deputy is aware, tax policy is a matter for my colleague the Minister for Finance in the first instance and therefore details in relation to uptake are matters for his Department.

Obviously I very much welcomed the announcement of increased thresholds under the existing Cycle to Work Scheme as part of the July Stimulus package. The increases are in line with the commitment made in the Programme for Government in relation to the Scheme.

In relation to the question from the Deputy regarding plans to enhance the scheme, and noting the Minister for Finance’s responsibilities in the area, I believe the issue can be considered more fully in the context of my Department’s review of Sustainable Mobility policy which is currently ongoing.  I intend that the new policy framework will provide a strategic backdrop to the increased investment planned by this Government across the sustainable mobility programme, including active travel, and look forward to the completion of this important work in 2021.

Covid-19 Pandemic Supports

Ceisteanna (125)

Peadar Tóibín

Ceist:

125. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Transport the supports his Department will provide to the airline industry in view of the tighter travel restrictions. [5637/21]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

My Department is monitoring the financial impact of COVID-19 on the Irish aviation sector on an ongoing basis, in consultation with all key stakeholders and relevant Government Departments.

The Government has put in place a range of supports for businesses, including those in aviation. The supports include the extended wage subsidy scheme, alleviation of commercial rates, and tax clawback. To date, over €100 million in operational support has been made available under these schemes for Irish airports and airlines. Liquidity support is also available through the ISIF Pandemic Stabilisation and Recovery Fund.

In November, the Government also agreed a revised €80 million funding package specifically for Irish aviation in recognition of the very difficult circumstances facing the sector. My Department is currently engaging with the European Commission regarding formal approval of this package which will be implemented in line with EU State aid rules.

Road Safety

Ceisteanna (126)

Darren O'Rourke

Ceist:

126. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Transport the status of the road traffic (miscellaneous provisions) Bill; when the legislation will be brought before Dáil Éireann; the way in which this legislation will address the use of e-scooters on the roads; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5669/21]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

The Department is working to bring forward Road Traffic (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill as soon as possible, and I intend to legislate for e-scooters in accordance with the Programme for Government.

This involves identifying and developing appropriate amendments to primary legislation across a range of complex areas. The work must be carried out in such a way that it does not undermine the overall framework of Road Traffic Law or Road Safety in general. 

A new class of vehicles called Powered Personal Transporters (PPTs) will be established and regulations will follow which will set safe standards to be met by PPTs themselves, as well as to provide for their use in public places.  I am pleased to say that on 26 January the Government approved this approach.

I intend to bring forward amendments to the relevant enabling primary legislation when the Road Traffic (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill is before the Oireachtas as soon as scheduling permits.

Driver Licences

Ceisteanna (127)

Duncan Smith

Ceist:

127. Deputy Duncan Smith asked the Minister for Transport if a person (details supplied) considered an essential worker can apply for a professional driver licence. [5701/21]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

A learner permit or provisional licence issued by another jusidiction is not recognised for driving in Ireland.

A person resident in Ireland can apply for a driving licence once thay have obtained their certificate of competency by passing a driving test. There are certain steps that a person must take in order to become a qualified driver - passing the Driver Theory Test, application for a learner permit, completion of the Essential Driver Training, and passing a driving test. A Certificate of Professional Competence is also required for professional driving. Information on all these requirements are available on the Road Safety Authority website www.rsa.ie.

Covid-19 Pandemic Supports

Ceisteanna (128)

Róisín Shortall

Ceist:

128. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Transport the details of state aid provided to date or planned to provide support to the aviation sector due to the economic impact of Covid-19; the timeline for same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5746/21]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

My Department is monitoring the financial impact of COVID-19 on the Irish aviation sector on an ongoing basis, in consultation with all key stakeholders and relevant Government Departments.

The Government has put in place a range of supports for businesses, including those in aviation. The supports include the extended wage subsidy scheme, alleviation of commercial rates, and tax clawback. To date, over €100 million in operational support has been made available under these schemes for Irish airports and airlines. Liquidity support is also available through the ISIF Pandemic Stabilisation and Recovery Fund.

In November, the Government also agreed a revised €80 million funding package specifically for Irish aviation in recognition of the very difficult circumstances facing the sector. My Department is currently engaging with the European Commission regarding formal approval of this package which will be implemented in line with EU State aid rules.

Proposed Legislation

Ceisteanna (129)

James O'Connor

Ceist:

129. Deputy James O'Connor asked the Minister for Transport the timeline for the introduction of the road traffic (miscellaneous provisions) Bill; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5777/21]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

The Department is working to bring forward Road Traffic (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill as soon as possible. I am pleased to note that on 26 January the Government approved the inclusion of a number of additional measures which I propose to introduce during the passage of the Bill, including measures to legalize the use of escooters.

Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles

Ceisteanna (130)

Michael Healy-Rae

Ceist:

130. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Transport if grants for wheelchair buses or taxis are available; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5787/21]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

As Minister for Transport I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport.

It is the National Transport Authority (NTA) which has statutory responsibility for promoting the development of an integrated, accessible public transport network. Its statutory remit also includes procuring the provision of public passenger transport services nationally, licensing of commercial passenger bus services and regulation of the taxi sector.

I have therefore forwarded the Deputy's Question to the NTA for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within ten working days.

A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Order 51.

Electric Vehicles

Ceisteanna (131)

Darren O'Rourke

Ceist:

131. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Transport the number of EV grants awarded by the SEAI for each model of eligible EV listed on its website in 2020, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5804/21]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI), currently provides up to €5,000 in grant support for the private purchase of a new electric car and up to €3,800 for the commercial purchase of a new electric van. The vehicles in question may be battery electric vehicles (BEVs) or plug-in electric hybrid vehicles (PHEVs).   I understand that over 4,800 grants were paid in 2020.

In light of the SEAI's responsiblity in the matter, I have forward the Deputy's question to the Authority for direct response.  Please contact my Office if no reply is received within 10 working days.

Road Projects

Ceisteanna (132)

Duncan Smith

Ceist:

132. Deputy Duncan Smith asked the Minister for Transport the position regarding the provision of a new road (details supplied) in County Kildare. [5809/21]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

The improvement and maintenance of regional and local roads is the statutory responsibility of the relevant local authority in accordance with the provisions of Section 13 of the Roads Act 1993. State grants, where applicable, are intended to supplement the funding allocated to the maintenance and improvement of roads by local authorities from their own resources.

The National Development Plan (NDP) does provide for the gradual build up in funding for the road network but funding is not yet at the level needed for the adequate maintenance and renewal of regional and local roads.  For this reason the primary focus for capital investment continues to be the maintenance and renewal of the network with some limited investment in road improvement schemes. In this context 12 regional and local road improvement projects were identified for development, subject to necessary approvals, in the NDP and the construction of a Distributor Road to the south of Athy connecting to the N78 is one of those schemes. 

Under the Public Spending Code and the terms and conditions applying to regional and local road grants, capital projects are subject to review and approval at a number of stages.  In this context Kildare County Council has submitted the contract documentation for the main Athy scheme construction contract to my Department for review.

The project will be subject to further consideration before a decision is made on whether the tender process proceeds.

Driver Licences

Ceisteanna (133)

Denise Mitchell

Ceist:

133. Deputy Denise Mitchell asked the Minister for Transport if a further extension to driver licences that have expired or are due to expire in the coming weeks is being considered; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5810/21]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Due to the resurgence of Covid-19 in Europe as well as Ireland, the possible extension of driving licences is currently under consideration at EU level. A decision on this issue is expected shortly.

Road Projects

Ceisteanna (134)

Jennifer Murnane O'Connor

Ceist:

134. Deputy Jennifer Murnane O'Connor asked the Minister for Transport if he plans to provide funding to complete the northern ring road in Athenry, County Galway; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5839/21]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

The improvement and maintenance of regional and local roads is the statutory responsibility of each local authority in accordance with the provisions of Section 13 of the Roads Act 1993. Works on those roads are funded from Councils' own resources supplemented by State road grants. The initial selection and prioritisation of works to be funded is also a matter for the Council.

Any projects proposed by local authorities for consideration under the Strategic Grant Programme are assessed by the Department on a case-by-case basis.  All projects put forward by local authorities for consideration must comply with the requirements of the Public Spending Code and the Department's Capital Appraisal Framework (CAF).  Given the limited funding available for regional and local road improvement works it is important for local authorities to prioritise projects within their overall area of responsibility with these requirements in mind. All applications received from local authorities for Strategic Grant allocations have to be assessed taking into account competing projects and the available budget.

The Department has provided funding for the proposed middle section of Athenry Ring Road to link up the two sections which have been constructed already.  The implementation of this project, which is at design stage, is being managed by Galway County Council. The Department provided a funding allocation of €1.2 million in 2020 for this scheme but as progress was slower than anticipated only a small part of this allocation was actually drawn down. 

Grant allocations for 2021 will be announced as soon as possible.

EU Directives

Ceisteanna (135)

Catherine Connolly

Ceist:

135. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Minister for Transport if mechanisms have been put in place to ensure continuity of the provisions of the sixth motor insurance Directive 2009/103/EC allowing persons resident here who are injured in road traffic accidents which occur in Northern Ireland to bring legal proceedings in this jurisdiction; if so, the details of those mechanisms; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5842/21]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

As the UK, including Northern Ireland, have now left the EU, the provisions of the sixth Motor Insurance Directive no longer apply to them.  Persons injured in a motor accident in third countries who wish to bring legal proceedings must do so in the country where the incident took place.  This is one of the unavoidable consequences of the UK decision to leave the EU. 

Community Involvement Scheme

Ceisteanna (136)

Pádraig O'Sullivan

Ceist:

136. Deputy Pádraig O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Transport his plans to roll-out the community involvement scheme for local authorities in 2021; the funding that will be provided for the repair of semi-public roads through Cork County Council; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5876/21]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

The improvement and maintenance of public regional and local roads is the statutory responsibility of each local authority, in accordance with the provisions of Section 13 of the Roads Act 1993. Works on those roads are funded from local authorities' own resources supplemented by State road grants.  The initial selection and prioritisation of works to be funded is also a matter for the local authority.

The Community Involvement Scheme (CIS) is based on community contributions within the range of 15% to 30% and applies to public roads taken in charge by the local authority.  The focus of the programme is on the repair of more lightly trafficked public roads which might not be high on the list of a local authority's annual roadwork programme. 

Following the introduction of ring-fenced funding for a CIS programme in 2018, it was decided to provide funding over a two year period 2018/2019 so as to give local authorities more flexibility in delivering this programme. Towards the end of 2019, my Department invited local authorities to submit applications for CIS for another two year programme for the period 2020/2021. Funding will be provided in 2021 to complete the projects provided for in this funding round. 

Grant allocations for 2021 will be announced as soon as possible.

Question No. 137 answered with Question No. 88.

Road Projects

Ceisteanna (138)

Peadar Tóibín

Ceist:

138. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Transport the reason the sign off on the completion of the delivery of the Coonagh-Knockalisheen Road, County Limerick has been delayed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5889/21]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

The improvement and maintenance of regional and local roads is the statutory responsibility of the relevant local authority in accordance with the provisions of Section 13 of the Roads Act 1993. State grants, where applicable, are intended to supplement the funding allocated to the maintenance and improvement of roads by local authorities from their own resources.

The National Development Plan (NDP) does provide for the gradual build up in funding for the road network but funding is not yet at the level needed for the adequate maintenance and renewal of regional and local roads.  For this reason the primary focus for capital investment continues to be  the maintenance and renewal of the network with some limited investment in road improvement schemes. In this context 12 regional and local road improvement projects were identified for development, subject to necessary approvals, in the NDP and the  construction of a Coonagh to Knockalisheen Distributor Road is one of those schemes. 

Under the Public Spending Code, capital projects are subject to review and approval at a number of stages. As required under the Code Limerick City and County Council has submitted a recommendation regarding the award of a contract for the construction of the main scheme. I am continuing to consider the project and in this context a virtual meeting with the Moyross Residents Group took place on the 22nd January. I plan to discuss the project further with relevant State Agencies and re-convene another meeting with the group shortly.

Covid-19 Pandemic Supports

Ceisteanna (139)

Catherine Murphy

Ceist:

139. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Transport the level of intervention he will take in respect of State airports in the context of the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic; and his plans to introduce another round of financial assistance to State airports in 2021 and 2022. [5900/21]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

As the Deputy will be aware, the Government has put in place a range of supports for businesses in response to the Covid crisis. Many of these supports, including the commercial rates waiver and the Employment Wage Subsidy Scheme, have been extended into 2021. The State airports – Dublin, Cork and Shannon – continue to avail of these supports.  

In addition, in recognition of the very difficult circumstances being faced by airports and taking account of the recommendations of the Taskforce for Aviation Recovery, the Government announced a €80m funding package specifically for Irish aviation in November 2020, which includes funding for State airports in 2021.

As part of that package, €32.1 million has been allocated to a new funding programme for the State airports of Cork and Shannon.  Applications for capital grants under this programme have been received from both airports and are currently being reviewed by my Department. 

My Department  has also sought approval from the European Commission for additional schemes to help compensate airports for the damage caused by COVID.  Once approved, all airports that deliver connectivity - Dublin, Cork, Shannon, Knock, Kerry and Donegal - will be invited to apply for supports under these schemes from a budget of €26 million. 

I will continue to monitor the financial impact of COVID-19 on the Irish aviation sector, in consultation with all key stakeholders and relevant Government Departments.  The need for any potential additional intervention will be kept under review in this context.

Covid-19 Pandemic Supports

Ceisteanna (140, 148, 150)

Catherine Murphy

Ceist:

140. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Transport the level of intervention he will take in respect of airlines in the context of the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic; and if he plans to offer a financial assistance package to carriers. [5901/21]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Niamh Smyth

Ceist:

148. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Transport if matters raised by a person (details supplied) in correspondence will be examined; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5998/21]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Darren O'Rourke

Ceist:

150. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Transport the additional and specific supports he will put in place for workers in the aviation sector in response to the increased restrictions on international travel; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6005/21]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

I propose to take Questions Nos. 140, 148 and 150 together.

My Department is monitoring the financial impact of COVID-19 on the Irish aviation sector on an ongoing basis, in consultation with all key stakeholders and relevant Government Departments.

The Government has put in place a range of supports for businesses, including those in the aviation sector. The supports include the wage subsidy scheme, alleviation of commercial rates, tax clawback, the covid restriction support scheme, the credit guarantee scheme, and the SBCI working capital scheme.

As regards supports specifically targetted at the protection of employment, the Employment Wage Subsidy Schemes (EWSS) has been a key component of the Government's response to the covid crisis to support viable firms and encourage employment in the midst of these very challenging times. The EWSS higher subsidy rate will apply until 31st March 2021. The scheme will continue during 2021 and the Government will decide on the form of its extension when economic conditions are clearer, guided by what the economy requires at that time to support the expected economic recovery.

In November, the Government also agreed a revised €80 million funding package specifically for Irish aviation in recognition of the very difficult circumstances facing the sector. My Department is currently engaging with the European Commission regarding formal approval of this package which will be implemented in line with EU State aid rules.

Road Traffic Offences

Ceisteanna (141)

Neasa Hourigan

Ceist:

141. Deputy Neasa Hourigan asked the Minister for Transport his plans for the issuing of speeding fines to be based on a driver’s income rather than a fixed penalty; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5916/21]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Following legal advice received when this proposal was first mooted, there are currently no plans to introduce speeding fines based on a person's income.

Driver Test

Ceisteanna (142)

David Cullinane

Ceist:

142. Deputy David Cullinane asked the Minister for Transport the level at which driver tests are operating; the estimated backlog or missed tests due to Covid-19; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5928/21]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Specific details on driving test waiting lists are held by the Road Safety Authority.   

I am therefore passing this part of the Deputy's question to the Road Safety Authority for direct reply.  If a reply has not been received within 10 working days, the Deputy should contact my office.

During the level 5 period, driving tests will be available only to those who are involved in essential services, including essential retail work.  

A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Order 51

Bus Services

Ceisteanna (143)

Niamh Smyth

Ceist:

143. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Transport if a bus stop will be erected at a location (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5931/21]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. The National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for the planning and development of public transport infrastructure, including the provision of bus stops and bus shelters.

Noting the NTA's responsibility in the matter, I have referred the Deputy's question to the NTA for a direct reply. Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 days.

A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Order 51

Aviation Industry

Ceisteanna (144)

Róisín Shortall

Ceist:

144. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Transport the status of each of the recommendations made by the Aviation Recovery Taskforce; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5937/21]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

The majority of the recommendations of the Aviation Recovery Taskforce have been implemented. The recommendations broadly ranged from measures to improve the safety of air travel, to rebuilding regional and international connectivity, and to making financial support measures available to the sector. The current course of COVID-19 means that the short-term prospects for aviation, across Europe and beyond, are bleak. International travel is reduced to only essential journeys, and in that context the aviation sector will be operating at very low levels of activity.

The Taskforce report was very much focused on how to aid recovery, and while now is not the time to stimulate and encourage recovery, the building blocks for recovery are being put in place for when the public health conditions support the gradual return of non-essential international air travel. Ireland adopted the EU’s traffic light system for international travel, which the Report called for, and this, together with the finalisation of Ireland’s National Protocol for Safe Air Travel, provided a comprehensive set of rules for international air travel based on clear public health advice.

A number of financial supports have been made available to the aviation industry, including meeting the Taskforce’s recommendations for the extension of the wage subsidy scheme and the provision of liquidity supports. The wage subsidy scheme has been extended into 2021, as has the waiver of commercial rates. Liquidity support for medium and large enterprises has been made available to all sectors, including the aviation sector, through the ISIF Pandemic Stabilisation and Recovery Fund.

In November 2020, the Government also agreed a revised €80 million funding package specifically for Irish aviation in recognition of the very difficult circumstances facing the sector. My Department is currently engaging with the European Commission regarding formal approval of this package which will be implemented in line with EU State aid rules.

The scale of the challenges created by COVID-19 are better understood now than when the Taskforce reported.  While the recommendations of the Taskforce do remain relevant, those relating to recovery and growth of air traffic can only be progressed at the appropriate time, in line with the easing of travel restrictions and improving wider epidemiological conditions. 

My Department will forward a report to the Deputy in tabular format on the status of imlementation of each of the recommendations.  

Aviation Industry

Ceisteanna (145)

Joe Carey

Ceist:

145. Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for Transport further to Parliamentary Question Nos. 168 of 8 December 2020 and 46 of 25 November 2020, if his officials have now conducted a thorough consideration of the comprehensive and substantial submission; when he received this submission; the number of staff and former staff involved; if he has sought a response from the Irish Aviation Authority; the process and timetable for the examination of the submission; when he will refer the matter to the Minister for Finance and the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5958/21]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Section 41 (7) of the Irish Aviation Authority Act, 1993 provides that a dispute on superannuation benefit may be submitted to the Minister for Transport for determination by the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform.  I can confirm that I received two such submissions, on behalf of staff of the Irish Aviation Authority, and those submission are now with the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform in accordance with the statutory process.

As the appeal process is ongoing, I am not in a position to provide any further comment at this stage. 

Covid-19 Pandemic

Ceisteanna (146)

Martin Browne

Ceist:

146. Deputy Martin Browne asked the Minister for Transport if travellers coming into the country via ports or airports and who have to restrict their movements will be provided with secure transport from the airport to their residence or accommodation in order not to risk the spread of Covid-19 on public transport. [5960/21]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

The extent to which the public, including arriving passengers, are advised to self-isolate, restrict their movements, adhere to other public health measures or undertake Covid-19 testing, is based on the advice of the public health authorities. My Department assists with the implementation of public health measures in relation to international travel, as decided by Government following relevant advice.

As you know, the Government continues to advise against non-essential international travel and that any essential travel is undertaken with due regard to public health safety measures.

The implementation of Government measures concerning international travel quarantine and supporting regulations are being worked through by the Department of Health in consultation with cross-Departmental colleagues, including the Department of Transport, with updates and further details to be made available on Gov.ie

Question No. 147 answered with Question No. 88.
Question No. 148 answered with Question No. 140.

Covid-19 Pandemic Supports

Ceisteanna (149)

Darren O'Rourke

Ceist:

149. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Transport the airlines that have in 2020 and 2021 sought financial support as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic; the amount of financial support sought by each airline; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6004/21]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

My Department is monitoring the financial impact of COVID-19 on the Irish aviation sector on an ongoing basis, in consultation with all key stakeholders and relevant Government Departments.

The Government has put in place a range of supports for businesses, including those in aviation. The supports include the extended wage subsidy scheme, alleviation of commercial rates, and deferred tax liabilities. To date, over €100 million in operational support has been made available under these schemes for Irish airports and airlines. Liquidity support is also available through the ISIF Pandemic Stabilisation and Recovery Fund.

In November, the Government also agreed a revised €80 million funding package specifically for Irish aviation in recognition of the very difficult circumstances facing the sector. My Department is currently engaging with the European Commission regarding formal approval of this package which will be implemented in line with EU State aid rules.

It remains open to airlines to engage directly with the relevant agencies concerned with a view to drawing down such supports. The amount of any funding sought by each airline would be a commercial matter for the airlines concerned.

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