Shannon Group has welcomed the announcement of a new special task force on aviation.
The group will be represented on the body, which was unveiled last night by Transport Minister Shane Ross.
It will be tasked with charting a course forward for the aviation sector, in the wake of unprecedented challenges.
Meanwhile, calls are being made for a Mid-West TD to be appointed the new Transport Minister once a Government is formed.
Last night in the Dáil, Transport Minister Shane Ross announced the formation of an aviation task force, comprised of stakeholders from the industry.
The group, which is expected to include a Shannon Group representative, will be asked to issue a report within four weeks, with a plan to relaunch the industry in Ireland.
Minister Ross has also warned that it could take several years for the aviation sector to recover, in the wake of the public health emergency.
The newly established group has been welcomed by many TDs, although Independent TD Michael McNamara said it’s success will depend on those appointed to it.
Last week Aer Lingus announced that staff based at Shannon Airport are being temporarily let go this month, as it’s not currently operating flights out of the midwest airport.
Clare’s Sinn Féin TD Violet Ann Wynne and Fianna Fáil Cathal Crowe both questioned the airline’s commitment to Shannon.
While Clare Fine Gael TD Joe Carey has questioned whether Government policies need to be changed to bolster airlines and airports.
Today, his party colleague, Senator Martin Conway has called on Aer Lingus to postpone layoffs until such a time as the Government’s Wage Subsidy Scheme runs out.
It’s due to end on June 21st, but it’s widely expected to be extended, and Senator Conway says that will give sufficient time to allow the aviation task force to make recommendations to secure the future of the sector.
The Ennistymon Senator says a significant bailout will be needed and he believes a Transport Minister based in this region will be vital for the future of the county’s airport.
Gavin Grace, Clare FM, first for local news.
