Doherty: Flight cancellations are 'worrying' and 'causing massive disruption'

Twelve flights between Donegal and Dublin have been cancelled in 12 days.

This is causing significant disruption to passengers, including patients needing to attend medical appointments. That’s the view of Sinn Féin Spokesperson on Finance Pearse Doherty, who has called on the Minister for Transport to take action.

Teachta Doherty said: “Last year Minister Eamon Ryan announced Emerald Airlines as the new operator of the Government funded air service from Donegal to Dublin. That this route operates properly is so crucial for those needing to attend medical and other important appointments.

“It is therefore deeply worrying that there have been 12 cancellations in 12 days. This has caused massive disruption for passengers. Many of them are cancer patients who have received short notice of cancellation and have had to travel by bus for four hours with no alternative.

“For patients and their families, this is simply unacceptable. The situation must be addressed immediately. I have written to Minister Ryan calling for him to engage with the operator and ensure that this situation is rectified immediately.”

Emerald Airlines, who are the exclusive operator of Aer Lingus Regional services, yesterday confirmed flights were cancelled from Donegal to Dublin due to a technical difficulty with the designated aircraft.