Wednesday, 15th August 2007

Government must vote in favour of Shannon–Heathrow link
IHF Calls for Clear Leadership at Aer Lingus EGM

At a joint meeting of the Shannon, Galway and Kerry Branches of the Irish Hotels Federation (IHF), hoteliers today called for immediate intervention by the Government to ensure the continuation of Aer Lingus’ Shannon–Heathrow service. Welcoming Ryanair’s call for an extraordinary general meeting (EGM) of the company, Annette Devine, President, IHF, and John Power, Chief Executive, IHF, joined with the branch chairpersons in urging the Government to resolve the current uncertainty and state clearly its intention to vote in favour of maintaining the route.

Michael Vaughan, Chairman of the IHF Shannon Branch, stated, “We welcome the manner in which the Shannon–Heathrow issue has been addressed by some members of the Government to date and in particular the Minister for Defence Wille O’Dea, TD. However, it is now imperative that the Government as a whole provide clear leadership and work with other shareholders in Aer Lingus to ensure the airline continues to retain the Shannon–Heathrow service at its current level.”

“The importance of the Shannon–Heathrow route to the long-term viability of Shannon Airport and the Mid West region can not be underestimated. Indeed, the vital strategic importance of the Heathrow slots is clearly recognised in provisions in the Articles of Association and IPO document for Aer Lingus. A vote by the Government to maintain the slots at the forthcoming EGM will be seen as a clear vote in favour of business and tourism in the region.”

ENDS

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION:

Eoin Quinn Tel: 01 6760168
Weber Shandwick FCC  Mobile: 087 2332191
Or
Michael Vaughan, IHF Tel: 065 708 1111