Statement regarding Aer Lingus decision

Minister for Transport, Eamon Ryan T.D. and Minister of State, Hildegarde Naughton T.D. have today acknowledged the decision by Aer Lingus to close the Aer Lingus cabin crew base at Shannon airport and to temporarily close the Aer Lingus base at Cork airport, along with the review of other ground handling requirements and the continuation of reduced working hours, associated pay reductions and lay-offs.

Minister for Transport, Eamon Ryan T.D. and Minister of State, Hildegarde Naughton T.D. remain acutely aware of the devastating impact that COVID-19 restrictions are having on the aviation sector, both nationally and across the globe. Both Ministers are committed to ensuring that the aviation industry is in a position to rebound quickly when the public health situation allows, and that Government supports continue to be utilised to aid companies and their staff throughout this crisis.

Engagements to this effect are ongoing, with Ministers recently having met with the CEO of Aer Lingus and CEOs of other key aviation stakeholders to discuss plans for re-opening the sector when the public health situation allows. The Ministers will meet again with the CEO of Aer Lingus tomorrow to discuss the company’s latest announcement.

Getting international travel back up and running is vital for the continued economic well-being of this country and remains a priority for the Government. Proposals for the gradual re-opening of international travel are currently being considered by Government and a decision is expected to be taken shortly.

ENDS

Note to Editors

Information on industry supports:

Throughout the covid crisis, the Government has made significant funding available to Aer Lingus and other aviation enterprises through a range of business supports. It is estimated that by end-June 2021 the sector overall will have received approx. €300 million in such supports. The bulk of this support is in the form of TWSS/EWSS wage subsidy schemes which were specifically designed to maintain the link between employers and employees. Liquidity support has also been provided to Aer Lingus, €150 million through the Pandemic Stabilisation and Recovery Fund.