asked the Minister for Transport the proportion of traffic between Ireland and North America having its origin and destination at Shannon.
Written Answers. - Air Services.
20.
Sixty-four per cent of North American originating passengers destined for Ireland disembarked at Shannon in 1979. Sixty six per cent of Irish originating passengers travelling to North America embarked at Shannon.
27.
asked the Minister for Transport if, in view of recent criticisms of the level of airport charges here compared to those in the United States, he will investigate the alleged disparity and its cost to air travellers, and if he will make a statement on the matter.
I am aware that criticisms have been made in recent months about the level of charges at Irish airports. Such criticisms, when based on comparisons with charges at US airports, must be treated with reserve. The economic and organisational environment of US airports is different and also varies from one US airport to another depending on ownership, traffic density and other factors.
Charges at Irish airports are reviewed annually by Aer Rianta in consultation with the airlines and then submitted for my approval prior to implementation. Bearing in mind that Irish airports are in competition with UK and continental airports for North Atlantic traffic, especially transit traffic, my practice in considering proposals for increased charges at Irish airports is to take into account the competitive effect on Irish airports vis-à-vis their UK and continental competitors. On the basis of such comparison, Irish airports are considerably down the league table.
28.
asked the Minister for Transport if the reduced Aer Lingus services this summer will affect the tourist trade.
In the cross-Channel and continental markets Aer Lingus have either maintained or increased the capacity and frequency of their services. There has been no reduction.
In the North Atlantic market, due to poor results, the airline have suspended their Montreal service. However, adequate charter capacity should ensure that the tourist trade will not suffer. On US/Ireland routes they have maintained or increased their level of scheduled services to New York, Boston and Chicago. There has been a reduction in their charter programme but the range of fares and new carriers on the US/Ireland routes will be of benefit to the tourist trade.
29.
asked the Minister for Transport if he will order an investigation of the restrictive practices which prevent price competition between airlines operating between Ireland and Britain.
I am satisfied that my legislative powers in relation to approval or disapproval of air fares, which I exercise in an equitable manner in the interest of both the air traveller and the airlines, make an investigation as proposed by the Deputy unnecessary.