Speech on the Volcanic Ash Crisis by Pat the Cope Gallagher MEP

18 May 2010, Strasbourg

As Ireland does not have a land connection to mainland Europe, Irish air passengers have faced extreme difficulties, even more than any other EU Member State.

For example, I travelled to Strasbourg this week over land having had to take a ferry to Wales, a car to Folkestone and a train to Strasbourg.

I raise my personal experience as it is typical of many journeys undertaken by Irish people in recent weeks.

The EU Transport Ministers established three separate flying zones based on the safety risk to aircraft. Since the introduction of the third zone, over 300,000 hours of airline operations have taken place. However, further measures are still needed.

I strongly support efforts to fast-track the introduction of the Single European Sky concept. The Declaration of Madrid adopted in February by the Spanish Presidency, established a roadmap to put in place this policy.

The role of Euro-Control must also be closely examined. It must be awarded statutory powers as opposed to the co-ordination role, which it currently holds.

As early as yesterday, a joint agreement was reached between Ireland and the UK so as to curtail the disruption to air travel. This is a very welcome development.

Instead of numerous bilateral agreements, one common and coherent policy across the European Union would better serve both our airlines and our passengers.

In addition, I am seriously concerned for the future of small regional airports based in the North West constituency of Ireland should the disruption to air travel continue.

A volcanic ash cloud recognizes no political or geographical boundaries and has highlighted the sheer immense power of Mother Nature.

The case is overwhelming for a common policy across EU airspace. It is essential that the role of the European Union is strengthened as a result of the crisis.

ENDS