Pádraig Mac Lochlainn (Donegal, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

23. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport when the Government will reinstate funding for the Derry to Dublin airlink in a partnership between his Department and the shared island unit. [20746/23]

Jack Chambers (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputy for his continued interest in this matter.

In the context of supporting greater connectivity on the island of Ireland, the Government agreed ‘to take forward a review of the potential for Government support to renewed viable air routes from Cork to Belfast and Dublin to Derry, working with the UK Government and Northern Ireland Executive to deliver improved connections as a priority’ as part of its commitments under New Decade New Approach.

As the Deputy is aware my Department has progressed a desk-based review, which myself and Minister Ryan are considering in consultation with Government colleagues.

Engagement between my Department and City of Derry Airport (CODA) is also continuing. In a post COVID-19 environment, CODA was requested to provide material, including evidence to demonstrate the airport's anticipated passenger demand for a Derry/Dublin route. My Department is reviewing the material provided by CODA during December, as well as additional detail sought from and provided by the airport during April.

Engagement will continue between my Department, the Northern Ireland Executive and the UK Government as appropriate and with all interested parties on this matter. In keeping with this, it is my intent to engage personally and meet with CODA representatives in the coming weeks.