Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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267. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the extent to which he sees the respective roles for Aer Lingus and Ryanair to develop in the coming years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15646/14]

Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael)
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Since Ryanair was first established in the 1980s, Ireland’s aviation policy has favoured competition by having at least two major airlines competing in the Irish market. Between them Aer Lingus and Ryanair currently provide over 80% of the seat capacity in the Irish market, thus making the competitive dynamic between these two airlines particularly important. Competition between Ryanair and Aer Lingus has been good for Irish consumers and also Irish connectivity.

The consultation paper on a National Aviation Policy asked for comments on whether the policy of favouring two major airlines should continue. Having considered all the submissions received, I intend to publish a draft National Aviation Policy for further comment in the coming weeks.