The air service for the Aran Islands is in limbo again as the Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht has failed to reach an agreement with the owners of Na Minna airport in Inverin.
A meeting took place last evening between island representatives and Gaeltacht Minister, Galway West/South Mayo TD Sean Kyne.
Senator Trevor O’Clochartaigh attended this evening’s meeting, and says the department has not come to any agreement with the owners of the airport with regard to the cost of the Public Service Obligation contract.
As a result, the deadline for tenders has been extended for two weeks – the deadline had originally been set for noon yesterday.
Senator O’Clochartaigh says the department is now in a ‘stand-off’ situation with the owners of the airport, and as it stands, it is impossible to close off a contract with any interested bidder.
The current contract with Aer Arann runs out in September.
Senator O’Clochartaigh says all options must be explored in a bid to guarantee a service for the islanders.
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