Ireland says to seek US air deal if EU one fails

BRUSSELS, Mar 9 (Reuters) Ireland will seek a bilateral air transport agreement with the United States if a proposed EU-US deal fails, Irish Prime Minister Bertie Ahern said today.

Britain has raised concerns about the so-called ''open skies'' draft agreement hammered out by negotiators from the European Commission and the United States recently.

''I am backing two horses in this race. I have spoken to Tony Blair on this and he is keen to get a deal. He has put forward a specific proposal,'' Ahern said, adding that they had discussed the matter during a meeting in Brussels.

The Irish premier confirmed that he will address the issue, including possible bilateral agreements, during a meeting with US President George Bush on March 17.

The draft EU-US deal would allow European carriers to fly from any EU city to any US city without restrictions, while losening restrictions on US airlines flying to EU airports -- opening up London's Heathrow, which currently accepts transatlantic flights only from four airlines.

Ireland does not have a bilateral agreement with the United States as some EU nations do, making it harder for its carriers to gain entrance to the US market.

''I am concerned with Aer Lingus, our national carrier. They are seeking to enter three new cities in the States in the autumn and clarity on this matter is crucial,'' Ahern said.

He added that Blair indicated his ''strong willingness'' to find a solution. Ahern said a deal was unlikely to be concluded during a meeting of transport ministers later this month.

The Irish government is the largest shareholder in the former state-run airline with around 25 percent. Aer Lingus is currently fending off a hostile takeover by its low cost rival Ryanair.

REUTERS DKA RAI2010