Emer Higgins (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael)
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937. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his plans to force an airline (details supplied) to provide a refund or a voucher to a pensioner that cannot catch a flight on 10 July 2020 due to the fact they are adhering to the guidelines on Covid-19 in order that they can take the journey in summer 2021; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9096/20]

Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent)
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The Deputy raises an important issue.  As things stand in law, air passenger rights are protected by Regulation (EC) No. 261/2004, which covers the rights of passenger in instances of cancellations and other scenarios, including long delays.  However, if a flight goes ahead and a customer either cancels or does not use their ticket, they are not entitled to a refund under EU law.

As you have mentioned, the current practice of the two main Irish airlines serving the Irish market in instances where flights are not cancelled, and having regard to the Covid-19 travel restrictions, is to offer their customers the opportunity to rebook a flight for later in the year or to receive a voucher.  I am mindful, however, of the unfairness the case that you have raised, and any other like that, and I will ensure that it is raised as a matter of urgency with the airline.