Statement from the Government Taskforce on Emergency Planning regarding volcanic ash plume 06-May

The Taskforce reviewed reports from the various agencies regarding the current situation.

Geological advice is that the ongoing volcanic activity in Iceland earlier this week caused increased output of volcanic ash. This in turn resulted in the flight disruptions in the last few days. There is no indication so far, that the current eruption is about to cease.

Met Éireann reported that in the short to medium-term, the weather news is positive. The volcanic plume has drifted south westwards and should stay in the Atlantic for the next 4-5 days. Further on from that (looking to the next 5-10 days), winds are predicted to be from a north-north westerly direction and the Taskforce noted it is possible that Irish airspace might be impacted by volcanic ash again. However, this is entirely dependent on volcanic activity.

The Taskforce also noted that the incidence of winds over Ireland from a north or north westerly direction is typically less than 10% and that the weather patterns over the past 3 weeks have been untypical when viewed over the longer term. The reason for the current disruption to air services is that this untypical weather pattern has coincided with a very active phase in the Icelandic volcano.

The IAA reported today that all Irish airports are open. The IAA continues to be guided by the Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre, Eurocontol and Met Éireann regarding the volcanic ash plume and safety of all is paramount.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reported that air and water quality monitoring continues and they have not detected any deterioration in quality or increase in pollutants. The Taskforce also noted that no deterioration in air or water quality has been detected anywhere in Europe as a result of the volcanic ash plume.

The Commission for Aviation Regulation and National Consumer Agency reminded passengers who wish to claim refunds that any claims to their air carrier should be made within 6 months of their return to Ireland. Passengers should allow a reasonable amount of time for air carriers to process claims. Airline passengers should stay in touch with their carriers and check their websites for updated advice and information.

Transport Ministers have agreed that all Member States and agencies must plan for the likelihood that the ongoing volcanic activity may continue to disrupt the European aviation industry. The Taskforce recognises the increased inconvenience and disruption this may cause to all concerned (including the aviation industry, passengers, business, tourism etc). Each sector needs to review its contingency plans to ensure that planning and co-ordination to deal with any recurrence of flight disruptions as a result of volcanic ash, is as effective as possible.

Finally, the Taskforce specifically called today on air carriers to keep their websites up-to-date with advice and information and to keep in touch with passengers regarding disruptions to air services.

The Taskforce will meet again tomorrow morning at 10am.