asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will state approximately how many passen gers per month arrive at and depart from the air base at Foyncs, County Limerick, and the rent paid by the companies who use the base; if he will also state how many Irish citizens are employed on the staff there, who pays for harbour improvements or alterations, and what amount is given to harbour trustees as dues.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Foynes Air Base.
During a recent period of 12 months the average monthly numbers of persons arriving at and departing from the Shannon Airport (Foynes) by air were 666 and 678 respectively. The rents paid to the State by the operating companies for office accommodation at Foynes total £582 per annum. In addition airport fees paid by the operating companies amounted over a recent period of 12 months to £6,136. There are 109 persons of whom 107 are Irish citizens employed by the State on aviation services, excluding staff employed on customs, immigration, and similar services. It is understood that the staffs employed at Foynes by operating companies total approximately 220 of whom a considerable majority are Irish citizens. Harbour improvements or alterations for ordinary shipping purposes are paid for by the Foynes Harbour Trustees. Improvements or alterations connected with air transport are paid for by the State. The payments by the State to the Foynes Harbour Trustees amounted over a recent period of 12 months to approximately £620.
Was the recent appointment of the Marquis of Headfort made by the Government here?
No. That appointment was made by an operating company.