THERE was relief in Donegal this week when it was announced that Emerald Airlines will continue to operate the government-funded Public Service Obligation (PSO) air service between Donegal and Dublin airports for an additional year.
The current contract, which was due to expire on February 25, 2025, has now been extended for an additional one-year period.
The announcement was made by Minister of State at the Department of Transport James Lawless, who has moved to reassure Donegal Cancer Flights and Services that there will be no impact to passengers using this service under this important contract.
Minister Lawless said: “I am aware of concerns that some, including the Donegal Cancer Flights and Services, have raised about the potential impact of the passenger cap at Dublin Airporton the PSO air service. I wish to assure the people and businesses in this remote region that there will be no impact to passengers using this service under this important contract. I am acutely aware of the importance this PSO service has to the region, including for passengers travelling for medical reasons.
“Government recognises the important role this service plays in providing the people and businesses in this remote region with daily air services to Dublin, to attend medical and other important appointments. As well as supporting Government’s commitment to balanced regional development, these services also support growth of the economy and tourism in the region.”
Emerald Airlines was awarded this contract in 2022 following an EU public tendering process conducted by the Department in accordance with the requirements of EU Regulation 1008/2008.
This Regulation, on the common rules for the operation of air services in the Community, allows for the provision of PSO air services to isolated areas – those not adequately served by alternative transport services to administrative, business, education and medical centres.
This contract, providing twice daily two-way air services facilitating same day return trips from Donegal and further international connectivity from Dublin Airport, marks Government’s commitment to ensuring continued connectivity to the north west region.
The airport was used by 38,600 passengers in 2023 and that number has increased to 39,400 already this year.
Pat the Cope has welcomed the decision by Minister Lawless to extend the Donegal to Dublin Public Service Obligation (PSO) air service contract.
“Minister Lawless has confirmed to me that Emerald Airlines will continue to operate the Government funded PSO air service between Donegal and Dublin airports for an additional one-year period up until 25 February 2026. Emerald Airlines was awarded this contract in 2022 following an EU public tendering process conducted by the Department in accordance with the requirements of EU Regulation 1008/2008. This EU allows for the provision of PSO air services to isolated areas – those not adequately served by alternative transport services.”
Pat the Cope stated that he was delighted that the PSO contract has been extended until February 2026.
“The Minister reassured me that the proposed cap on passenger numbers landing into Dublin will have no impact for Donegal Airport.
I am well aware of the concerns that passengers, including the Donegal Cancer patients have had over the last weeks and I do hope that to days announcement will allay their fears.”
The Fianna Fáil candidate in the upcoming general election added: “I am pleased that Minister Lawless accepted my invitation to visit the Airport during the summer as it gave him an insight into the importance of Donegal Airport to the region.
“I have been a supporter and advocate for Donegal Airport all my political life and shall continue that same support if elected to the 34th Dáil.”
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