Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

My Department has maintained regular contact with the range of aviation stakeholders, including the Shannon Airport Authority, on a wide range of topics since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic crisis.

The National Civil Aviation Development Forum (NCADF) which includes representatives of the two main Irish airlines, Shannon airport, daa, regional airports, the State aviation agencies and the wider aviation value chain, is providing valuable industry input into the Department’s response to the crisis.

I am also considering options for deeper engagement and dialogue with the aviation industry with a view to assisting the recovery of the sector.

I fully appreciate and acknowledge the import role of Shannon Airport to the economy of the Midwest region and indeed nationally. The importance of Shannon Airport is acknowledged in the National Aviation Policy (NAP). The NAP recognises the strategic importance of Shannon for connectivity for the mid-West region and as a gateway to the Wild Atlantic Way.

The Government has put in place a broad range of supports to help mitigate the effects of the crisis on our citizens and businesses. One such support is the COVID-19 Temporary Wage Subsidy Scheme. This Scheme allows employers to continue to pay their employees during the COVID-19 emergency. It aims, as we know, to keep employees registered with their employers, so that they will be able to get back to work quickly after the pandemic. Shannon Group is availing of this Scheme. Details of the full suite of Covid-19 Government funding and supports have been notified to Shannon Group for consideration.

My Department continues to work closely with Shannon Group to ensure that the Company, including Shannon Airport, will be well positioned operationally to contribute to the post pandemic recovery when it commences.