THE Department of Transport will launch an emergency procurement process this week with a view to restoring air services linking Dublin with Donegal as quickly as possible.
Ministers Ryan and Naughton briefed the cabinet on the plans this morning.
The department will issue a request for quotes directly to airlines in the coming days, in accordance with applicable EU rules on air service Public Service Obligations, and taking account of legal advice. It is anticipated that the emergency procurement process will be completed by early July with a view to services being restarted by the new operator(s) as soon as possible thereafter. The contract will be subject to a maximum term of seven months and will operate in accordance with EU law.
In tandem, the department will launch a procurement process for a maximum of four years for the continued provision of the services, which will apply after the temporary contract has expired. This will mitigate against any disruption to these services once the emergency contract expires.
“The Department recognises the importance of restoring regional connectivity to these airports in advance of the reopening of international travel on July 19 and continues to engage closely with aviation stakeholders in this regard,” said a spokesperson.
Receive quality journalism wherever you are, on any device. Keep up to date from the comfort of your own home with a digital subscription.
Any time | Any place | Anywhere
SUBSCRIBE TO CURRENT EDITION TODAY
and get access to our archive editions dating back to 2007(CLICK ON THE TITLE BELOW TO SUBSCRIBE)