Kieran O'Donnell (Limerick City, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I am here to speak specifically about the Aer Lingus cabin crew base closure at Shannon Airport. It has been devastating for the workers and their families. As well as that, having a base at Shannon is critical for connectivity because of the early morning and early afternoon Heathrow slots and because it provides transatlantic connectivity to Aer Lingus. I have two questions. I know the Minister has had discussions with Aer Lingus so I ask that follow-up discussions be held now. We had a meeting with the Taoiseach earlier in that regard.

The plan that will allow aviation to reopen in a safe way is to be launched next week and the digital green certificate has been announced for the end of June. I ask that this be front-loaded. My main concern is that Aer Lingus must reverse its decision and re-establish its cabin crew base at Shannon Airport. The State is paying the PUP to staff who have been temporarily laid off. That payment is in place to bring the staff and the airline through so they can resume the Heathrow and transatlantic routes. I understand the airline has committed to connectivity but we must have that base to ensure absolute security in that area.

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