We believe that the decision to remove the four daily flights on the Shannon-Heathrow link will have a severe impact on trade and tourism in the west of Ireland. Closing off the connection with Europe's busiest airport will make it difficult for all but the most determined of international travellers to visit the region. It would render regular business travel from many world cities to Ireland's midwest unsustainable.

We respectfully request that Aer Lingus rescind this decision, and commit to retaining these profitable, busy and vital daily flights.