Cork TD urges protection of Heathrow slots

European affairs minister Dara Murphy has called on his government colleagues to stand over previous commitments to protect connectivity from Irish airports in light of IAG’s potential takeover of Aer Lingus.

The Cork North-Central TD said that, as London Heathrow represents the country’s most important connection to Europe, he is strong in his support of previous government indications its 25% shareholding would be used to protect competitiveness and connectivity in the Irish market.

Concerns were raised in recent days by a range of business leaders and opposition TDs over the potential loss of London Heathrow slots for Cork Airport in the event of IAG submitting a successful bid for the former national carrier.