Doherty says Donegal to Dublin flights must remain for 430 cancer patients

Pearse Doherty has called on the Tánaiste Michael Martin to ensure the Donegal to Dublin flight is not subject to the passenger cap at Dublin Airport.

Concerns have been raised that the passenger cap at Dublin could impact Donegal cancer patients who require flights to and from the capital for treatment, with Doherty, the Sinn Féin Spokesperson on Finance and Public Expenditure and Reform, stating 430 relying on the flight to and from Carrickfinn.

“The passenger cap should not be applied to the Donegal to Dublin flight,” Deputy Doherty said. “It is currently the state's only Public Service Obligation and it is essential that the route is not put at risk by the passenger cap at Dublin airport.

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“Donegal already suffers from a lack of connectivity as it is without access to the rail network and the A5 is yet to be upgraded. If we lose our air connectivity, business and tourism in the county will suffer.”

“There are currently 430 cancer patients who rely on the flight to get down to Dublin for treatment. These patients are supported by a local charity Ionad Naomh Pádraig, who provide return flights for patients and their carers. Many of these people simply cannot make the long journey to Dublin by car. I have called on the Tánaiste to intervene so that this PSO is not threatened by the passenger cap at Dublin Airport. I will continue to follow up on this matter to ensure this vital service is maintained”.