Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 26 January 2023
196. Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Transport if he has concluded his consideration of the air connectivity review, which is a commitment under the New Decade, New Approach agreement, and includes the Dublin-Derry route; the progress he has made in the reopening of the Dublin-Derry route; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3891/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy is aware, as part of its commitments under New Decade New Approach and in the context of supporting greater connectivity on the island of Ireland, the Irish Government agreed ‘to take forward a review of the potential for Government support to renewed viable air routes from Cork to Belfast and Dublin to Derry, working with the UK Government and Northern Ireland Executive to deliver improved connections as a priority’.
My Department has progressed a desk-based review which Minister Ryan and I are considering in consultation with Government colleagues.
Engagement will also continue with the Northern Ireland Executive and British Government as appropriate, and with stakeholders in the North-West.
I understand that the most recent engagement included a meeting between Minister of State Naughton (in her former role in this Department) and members of both the Board and management of City of Derry Airport on 8th November last. In a post COVID environment, City of Derry Airport was requested to provide an updated economic assessment for a Derry/Dublin route to my Department, along with records to demonstrate the current level of passenger demand for such a route. This material, which was submitted by the airport in December, is currently being assessed by my Department.
