Irish government's pledge to restore Derry-Dublin air link welcomed

Confirmation that the new Irish government is committed to restoring the Derry to Dublin air link, has been welcomed.

The incoming coalition published its draft Programme for Government containing a commitment to restore the public service obligation (PSO) route from City of Derry Airport, which was cancelled in 2011.

Local Sinn Fein councillor Sandra Duffy said the move is 'vital for economic development and growth' for the north west region.

Cllr Duffy said: “That is why we have been pressing so hard for the restoration of this connection. As well as the work he did to secure and fund the Derry to London route, Sinn Féin Economy Minister Conor Murphy has been urging ministers in the south to take a similar approach to the Dublin connection.

“I had also proposed to Council that we write to the incoming Taoiseach asking that this be given priority so I welcome that it has now been included in the draft Programme for Government.

“We now look forward to working closely on an all-island basis to ensure that commitment is turned into action as soon as practically possible.

“This is a welcome step towards ensuring the north west is better connected, although a strategic all-island aviation strategy would turbo charge this progress, firmly putting our region on the map as an exciting place to live, visit and do business in.”