Open Skies deal could be worth €1bn a year to Ireland

Irish MEPs are highlighting the potential benefits that a proposed new EU-US Open Skies agreement could have for Ireland.

The deal, which aims to ease restrictions on transatlantic air transport, is due to be voted on by the EU Council of Ministers at the end of this month.

Speaking at a debate on the matter in Strasbourg today, Irish MEPs said the deal could generate an extra €1bn for the Irish economy every year if it is ratified.

While most EU countries support the changes, there is some resistance, particularly in Britain, where the authorities want to protect current restrictions in place at Heathrow Airport.