Tim Lombard (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I want to raise an issue that I have previously raised in the Seanad. I refer to the decision by Norwegian Airlines not to progress with the winter service from Cork Airport to Providence in the USA this winter. The cessation of a transatlantic winter service is a huge issue in many ways, particularly when one wants balanced growth in a region. Originally the airline offered to provide the service all year round, which worked very well last year. However, in April of this year the airline announced that it would suspend the winter service.

I believe we must immediately engage with the airline about the issue. I realise that Norwegian Airlines must make a profit. However, if it has been granted a licence to provide a service all year round, we must work with it to ensure it does so. As three months have passed since the announcement, negotiations must happen sooner rather than later. On previous occasions in the Seanad I have asked the Leader to arrange a debate with the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport on the matter. I realise there is a proposal to invite representatives of the airline to appear before the Joint Committee on Transport, Tourism and Sport but we need clarity on the matter in order that we can build the tourism industry and the business element. The multinational companies that operate in County Cork found the transatlantic flight very important because it provided connectivity. Such connectivity is what multinational and indigenous industries in Cork need to develop and grow connections that they have created with their US friends over the years.

Before the recess, we should work with the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport and at least get clarity and engagement on this matter. It is important that we so.