Transport Tourism and Sport: Development of Aer Lingus 27th June 2013

To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his preferred options for the future development and control and shareholding in Aer Lingus; the extent to which it is envisaged that Ryanair might be expected to be involved in any plans in the context of the maximisation of air transport options and opportunities to and from this country worldwide; the extent to which it is intended to maximise opportunities for the possible development of an international air transport hub here; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

– Bernard J. Durkan.
For ORAL answer on Thursday, 27th June, 2013.
 
 
Ref No:
31081/13 Lottery: 15

Answered by the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport
Leo Varadkar

REPLY
 
I propose to take questions 19 ,  22 and  58 together.
 
These questions relate to Irish aviation policy and Irish airlines.
 
As an island, air transport connectivity is clearly of vital importance to Ireland for both economic and social reasons. There is a healthy competitive market for air services in and out of the country and we benefit from a wide range of air connections, both short and long haul. New routes are being announced on a regular basis by both Irish and international airlines. Maintaining and developing this connectivity is certainly a key objective of national aviation policy.
 
A consultation process to develop a new national aviation policy is currently underway. An issues paper was published on 1 March this year inviting submissions from stakeholders and interested parties. The deadline for submissions has recently been extended to 12 July in response to a number of requests. I anticipate that all the major airlines and airports will have substantial contributions to make to the consultation process. They each have a role to play in maximising options and opportunities for the development of the aviation sector.  I look forward to receiving their submissions along with the views of all interested parties.
 
Following receipt of submissions, a draft National Aviation Policy Statement will be issued in the second half of 2013. This will provide further opportunity for stakeholder input before the adoption of the new policy document in early 2014. The new policy will outline the actions to be taken by Government to help sustain and develop the aviation sector, in order to create jobs and support business and tourism.
 
In relation to the State’s remaining shareholding in Aer Lingus, the Government continues to seek opportunities to dispose of the shareholding, but will only do so when market conditions are favourable and on terms and at a price that are acceptable. In the meantime the Government will continue to manage its shareholding actively to protect the State’s interests and with the aim of maximising the value of the shareholding, securing dividends and encouraging new routes and additional capacity where commercially viable.
 
In relation to Cork airport questions regarding the development of routes and operating costs are day to day operational matters for the DAA and local management. I recently met with management at Cork Airport and welcomed their plans for the development of the Airport and for enhanced consultation by them with regional stakeholders.