Catherine Murphy (Kildare North, Independent)
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Question 167: To ask the Minister for Transport if he has satisfied himself that Weston Aerodrome is fully compliant with and will be offered indemnity under the terms of the Air Navigation and Transport (Indemnities) Act 2005; the inspections which have taken place at the aerodrome since the Bill was enacted regarding compliance; the discussions which have taken place between his Department and the management and owners of Weston Aerodrome regarding compliance with the Act and the implications of the Act; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36089/05]

Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)
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The Air Navigation and Transport (Indemnities) Act 2005 is a precautionary measure that allows the Government, in exceptional circumstances, to make an order declaring that a state of difficulty exists in relation to aviation insurance such that essential insurance is not generally available. This is not a decision that the Government will make lightly. It will be necessary to take into account the overall international situation, including possible developments at EU level or at the level of the International Civil Aviation Organisation.

If the Government makes such an order, the Act will allow the Minister to issue indemnities to the Irish aviation industry if they are unable to obtain essential insurance in the commercial market. My Department has not received any request for an indemnity under the Air Navigation and Transport (Indemnities) Act 2005. Until a request is made the question of eligibility does not arise.