Route launch diverted over DJ scandal

Aer Lingus has hastily changed the planned launch of its Cork to Brussels route after it emerged its first choice of location was owned by the Cork DJ who exposed himself aboard one of its flights in 2010.

The national airline has refused to comment publicly on the embarrassing mix-up but it is believed that the original booking for the Boardwalk Bar on Lapp’s Quay was made by an employee who was unaware of Neil Prendeville’s links to the bar/restaurant.

The new Belgian route is due to be launched at Soho Bar tomorrow.

The 49-year-old presenter was off the radio for five months between 2010 and March last year after it was revealed he had masturbated in front of passengers on a flight from London to Cork the previous October.

Investigations were carried out by both gardaí and Aer Lingus at the time, but the DPP directed that no prosecution be brought.

The DPP did not give a reason for his decision but the female witnesses were told it was due to a jurisdictional technicality.

In an interview on 96FM the week before he resumed his morning show, Mr Prendeville blamed alcohol for his inability to remember what happened aboard the flight. He had previously said he could not deny the incident had happened because of memory loss.

Yesterday a statement issued on behalf of Cork Airport stated: “The venue has changed.... to Soho, 77, Grand Parade, Cork at 6pm. The date and time remains the same.”

The Boardwalk declined to comment.