Ryanair and Aer Lingus have been criticised for hiking their fares ahead of next month's FIFA World Cup qualifying playoffs.
The Republic of Ireland have been drawn against France in the two-legged tie, with the second game due to take place in Paris on November 18th.
John O'Mahony, sports spokesperson for the Fine Gael party, said that the airlines had infuriated Irish football fans by making their flights to the French capital up to 1,000 per cent more expensive in anticipation of increased demand.
He told the Independent that Ryanair and Aer Lingus were taking part in an "obvious and unjustifiable rip-off", with the former carrier now charging passengers €316 (£284) to fly to Paris on the day of the match.
"Flying Aer Lingus is no better, with the cost of travelling to the match on the same dates at least €390 and possibly €409," Mr O'Mahony added.
The Republic of Ireland booked their spot in the playoffs after the dramatic 2-2 draw with Italy in Dublin earlier this month, when Stoke City's Glenn Whelan and Sean St Ledger of Preston North End scored for Giovanni Trappatoni's side.
Written by Tom Jenkins
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21 October 2010
21 October 2010
21 October 2010
20 October 2010
20 October 2010
