By Michelle Crean  

Ministers Ryan and Naughton briefed the cabinet on the plans this morning (Tuesday).

The move comes after the news on Sunday that Stobart Air, which operated the Kerry-Dublin service, was to cease trading with immediate effect. 

The Department today said that it 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 (PSOs), 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.

PROCUREMENT PROCESS

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.

Education Minister and Fianna Fáil TD for Kerry, Norma Foley, has welcomed today’s Cabinet commitment to make the Kerry Dublin PSO route a priority.

“The restoration of our regional connectivity is of critical importance to the people of Kerry,” Minister Foley said.

“Transport Minister Eamon Ryan confirmed to me his intentions to seek an expedited tendering process which aims to have a replacement carrier in place by mid-end of July.

“I am confident Government will continue to engage as a priority with relevant stakeholders until a suitable resolution is reached for the benefit of Kerry and the south-west region.”