Michael McNamara (Clare, Independent)
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185. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the actions that have been taken to ensure Shannon Heathrow connectivity given that the seven-year ownership of the Heathrow slots expires in 2022 (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22978/21]

Hildegarde Naughton (Galway West, Fine Gael)
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Aer Lingus entered into certain commitments at the time of its acquisition by IAG in 2015 in relation to the operation of its London Heathrow slots. Subject to certain conditions being met at Irish airports, Aer Lingus's connectivity commitments will remain in effect until 1 September 2022.

There is no existing provision to further extend these commitments, and the operation of particular routes after this point will be commercial matter for the airline.

Financial supports have been made available to Shannon Airport to support the recovery of routes in light of Covid-19 disruption.