The Transport Minister has insisted that Shannon’s voice will be heard on the new government taskforce on aviation.
Minister Shane Ross has appointed 15 people to the group, but concern has been expressed that it will be Dublin-dominated.
The taskforce membership was announced yesterday by Minister Shane Ross.
It includes Shannon Group CEO Mary Considine, as well as other representatives from the DAA, Knock Airport, Tourism Ireland, other aircraft leasing firms, trade unions, and former Senator and ex-Aer Arann boss Padraig O’Ceidigh.
Hours later, during a Dáil debate, Shannon’s case was pressed once more by some of Clare’s TDs – who again called on Minister Shane Ross to intervene – in favour of the Airport, and on behalf of the Shannon-based Aer Lingus staff – who are facing layoffs within days.
Among them, Sinn Féin’s Violet Anne Wynne.
Responding, Minister Ross defended the group’s four-week timeline to issue a report, insisting it was fast, though he said – they were welcome to report more quickly.
And he insisted – that Shannon’s position will be well articulated
Today, one of the taskforce members also insisted that Shannon’s case will be to the fore.
In an interview with Clare FM’s Morning Focus, former Senator and ex-Aer Arann head Padraig O’Ceidigh – spoke of the need for more balance – in Ireland’s aviation sector.
He suggested that one solution – is to declare some routes from Shannon Airport, likely to mainland Europe, as Public Service Obligation routes – which would see them get State support.
Meanwhile, one long-time campaigner for Shannon says – it won’t be good enough – if the taskforce only focusses on the current problems.
Former Mayor of Clare Patricia McCarthy says – a sustainable plan for the future must be put in place.
Brian McLoughlin, Clare FM, first for local news.
