Michael McNamara (Clare, Independent)
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188. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the timeline for the delivery of a restart plan for the Irish aviation sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22981/21]

Hildegarde Naughton (Galway West, Fine Gael)
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I welcome the recent aviation restart plan produced by the aviation industry participants of the National Civil Aviation Development Forum (NCADF). This report contains many recommendations for consideration across a number of Government Departments.

I have written to the NCADF seeking additional information and clarity on the operational readiness of the sector regarding a resumption of international travel, including details on how passengers will travel through our airports in a safe manner and in compliance with public health measures.

Getting international travel back up and running is vital for the continued economic well-being of the country and remains a priority for the Government; however, this can only be accomplished through consideration of the progression of our COVID-19 national vaccination programme, developments at EUand international level, and public health advice.

While we are not yet able to permit the restoration of international travel or commit to a definitive timeline for the delivery of an aviation restart plan at this time, work is underway to ensure we are prepared. Until then, Government will continue to provide a range of financial supports to the aviation sector.