Traffic light system proposed for non-EU air travel

A draft report from the Oireachtas Transport Committee has recommended that a traffic light system for countries outside the EU be developed before Christmas.

The draft report, on issues affecting the aviation industry, has recommended 19 actions in total. It is due to be formally published later this week.

Among the changes recommended is to develop a traffic light system for countries outside the EU, such as Australia, New Zealand, Canada and the US, ahead of Christmas, which would provide clarity to those living abroad.

The committee also wants to see the roll-out of rapid antigen tests for people arriving from all countries.

Members believe that this would complement current testing requirements in place for orange and red countries. 

At present, Ireland is currently in the orange zone of the EU traffic light system.

Passengers from orange regions who have a negative test result for Covid-19 up to three days prior to departure do not need to restrict their movements on arrival in most countries.

Among the recommendations is for Government to consider extending the Airport Charges Rebate Scheme beyond March 2021.

This move would benefit airlines and would, according to the report, make it easier to maintain connectivity to airports during the summer season.

The draft report also calls for the Government to seek a derogation from State Aid rules for emergency funding to Irish airports.

Travel agents, according to the report, should have access to the “Covid Restrictions Subsidy Scheme [CRSS]” at all levels of Covid-19 restrictions.

This is due to the “severe limitations” placed on their businesses.

The report also recommends that the wider tourism and hospitality sector continues to be addressed “in any future supports for businesses impacted by Covid-19”.

Article Source: Traffic light system proposed for non-EU air travel – RTE – Tommy Meskill

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