Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 20 Feb 1991

Vol. 405 No. 4

Written Answers. - Air Navigation Services.

Ivan Yates

Question:

133 Mr. Yates asked the Minister for Tourism, Transport and Communications if he will outline the level of investment since 1985 and the projected future investment in air navigation services and related communication systems in each of our international airports; and if he has satisfied himself that there is now a satisfactory level of facilities at each of these airports.

Minister for Tourism, Transport and Communications (Mr. S. Brennan)

Since 1985, £22 million has been spent by my Department on air navigation equipment and communication systems at the three State airports. Most of the expenditure, i.e., £17 million, has been incurred since 1988 following a review of the Air Navigation Services Office by consultants, Price Waterhouse. Arising from the consultants' recommendations a five year re-equipment programme was embarked on in 1988. The programme, which involves total budgeted expenditure of £30 million, is expected to be completed in 1992.

The re-equipment has involved the complete replacement of the main VHF communications systems, the replacement of navigational aids, the provision of instrument landing systems, and the installation of new radar systems at all three State airports. While some of the equipment is specific to individual airports, it is not feasible to apportion the expenditure to individual airports.

I am satisfied that the present equipment is fully adequate to meet existing traffic levels and the ongoing re-equipment programme will ensure that our system will be capable of meeting any new demands up to the mid nineties.