Minister Killeen Seeks Investigation Into Dublin Airport Authority Inaction On ShannonHeathrow Issue

PRLog (Press Release) – Oct 22, 2007 – Minister of State and Clare T.D., Mr. Tony Killeen has expressed concern over reports that the Dublin Airport Authority failed to tell the Shannon Airport Authority about Aer Lingus Shannon-Heathrow route cuts despite knowing about the threat.

Minister Killeen confirmed he has raised the issue with An Taoiseach Bertie Ahern and Minister for Transport Noel Dempsey.

"I am extremely disappointed with the Dublin Airport Authority's failure to pass on this vital information to its subsidiary in Shannon.  It does not make sense that the DAA, which operates Shannon Airport, decided not to take any action despite having first learned of the proposal in mid June", explained Minister Killeen.

He continued, "The DAA's explanation for not forwarding information to the SAA simply does not stand up.  Claims by the Authority that it did not pass the information on because Aer Lingus had furnished it in the strictest confidence are nonsensical considering the SAA is under its direct control.  It raises serious questions over the DAA's commitment to Shannon, as well as its role in protecting the interests of the Airport."

"I have asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Transport to investigate the reasons behind this communications failure.   I have also expressed my disappointment at the fact that direct actions aimed at preventing the Heathrow cut may have been possible if the information had been made known to the SAA", added the Minister.

Minister Killeen said that the news is especially disappointing for those who have been campaigning for the continuation of flights between Shannon and Heathrow.  

He continued, "People in the Midwest simply cannot understand why the DAA has failed to protect Shannon Airport's strategic interests."

-ENDS-

Notes to Editor:
For further information please contact Mark Dunphy of Dunphy PR on 086-8534900 or media@dunphypr.com

Mark Dunphy
Dunphy Public Relations
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Connolly,
Ennis,
County Clare
IRELAND
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