Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party) | Oireachtas source

On the Deputy's final point about the application for a PSO service to continental Europe, I had not realised that might have been a potential factor in other commercial aviation interests looking at a route out of Shannon. I will look at that or liaise with the Minister of State, Deputy Chambers, because I do not believe we will able to get a PSO service out of Shannon into continental Europe. At the height of Covid we were looking at all sorts of mechanisms to try to support and develop the airport and the region. We looked at that and there was clear advice that it would be in breach of European state aid rules, and would not be justified. I think that case is all the more certain now. If it is a factor in hindering any contractual arrangements with other airlines, I will liaise with the Minister of State, Deputy Chambers to see what can be done.

The Deputy is correct that the review of regional airport programmes was out for consultation last year. My understanding is that officials are briefing the Minister of State, Deputy Chambers. I expect it will be considered and concluded shortly.