Dempsey rules out use of Navy to rescue stranded passengers

Transport Minister Noel Dempsey this afternoon ruled out the use of the Irish Navy to bring back to Ireland people who are stranded in Europe due to flight restrictions caused by the Icelandic volcano eruption.

Minister Dempsey also rejected criticism from the International Air Transport Association which earlier today said that the closure of airspace in Northern Europe is too severe a response.

The Government's Taskforce on Emergency Planning met today and said flight restrictions may ease by the weekend if weather conditions improve as predicted.

However, for the moment, Irish airspace will be closed until at least 6pm this evening.

Thousands of air passengers remain stranded across Europe with tens of thousands of flights cancelled but Minister Dempsey said using the Navy to get them back would not be a practical solution.

Taoiseach Brian Cowen meanwhile said the Government is working with shipping companies to see what can be done for stranded passengers.

The Taoiseach said every effort is being made to help those affected.