LAST UPDATE | 7 Oct

FLIGHTS BETWEEN DUBLIN and Derry could resume next year, having been withdrawn in 2011. 

Minister for Public Expenditure Jack Chambers announced plans to reestablish the air link in the Dáil today, as he set out the Budget’s commitments to support the Shared Island initiative.

He said resources would be doubled by a further €1 billion. 

“A new Dublin-Derry air link to commence, enabling regular air travel between the two cities,” Chambers said as he listed projects the fund would provide for.

A daily flight between Dublin and City of Derry Airport was once funded by the government, but this was withdrawn in 2011. 

Chambers did not give a date for the resumption of the service, however his Department has since said it is likely to be operational by the end of 2026.

He said the Shared Island Fund plans to deliver the Narrow Water Bridge, a proposed bridge on Carlingford Lough that would connect Omeath in Co Louth to Warrenpoint in Co Down. The bridge is estimated to cost €102m plus VAT.

The Ulster Canal Restoration project would also be provided for.

In the north, a SDLP MLA welcomed the commitment from Ireland’s government. 

Sinéad McLaughlin said it shows the Irish government’s commitment to the Shared Island Fund, and said the Executive needs to “match that ambition” and “work in genuine partnership with Dublin”.

Speaking at a press conference this evening, Minister Chambers said: 

“There is a connectivity issue from the north west region and Dublin, and this will enhance business and enterprise and is warmly welcomed across the community, and is something that has been pushed for by many stakeholders.”

With reporting from Jane Matthews