Malcolm Noonan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Green Party) | Oireachtas source

Again, it is important to note that the Minister of State, Deputy Naughton, chairs the aviation subgroup of the Labour Employer Economic Forum and that subgroup is continuing its work in investigating a specially extended wage subsidy scheme for the aviation sector. That work is ongoing.

Specifically, in relation to the Heathrow slots, Aer Lingus still holds its portfolio slots at London Heathrow Airport, LHR. The slots are protected and are unaffected by the recent announcement by Aer Lingus of cuts at its Shannon and Cork bases. Certain connectivity commitments are agreed with International Airlines Group, IAG, when the State sold its residual shareholding in 2015. These are currently suspended under the force majeure provisions under the agreement. The connectivity commitments expire in September 2022 and Aer Lingus cannot dispose of those slots without prior consent from the Minister for Finance.

Getting international travel back up and running is vital for the continued economic well-being of this country and remains a Government priority. However, this can only be accomplished through consideration of the progression of our Covid-19 national vaccination programme, developments at EU and international levels, and public health advice. As stated earlier, the Government will set out its position very shortly.