Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 23 Jun 1992

Vol. 421 No. 4

Written Answers. - Casement Aerodrome (Dublin) Proposal.

Mervyn Taylor

Question:

74 Mr. Taylor asked the Minister for Defence if he has received representations from the Clondalkin Chamber of Commerce, Dublin 22 regarding their claim that there is considerable potential in a change of role for Baldonnel Airport, County Dublin to help to alleviate the problem of unemployment in Dublin South West (details supplied); if he will outline his views on the suggestions made; if he will confirm that this proposal will be examined; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Defence (Mr. Wilson)

My Department has received representations from the Clondalkin Chamber of Commerce regarding Casement Aerodrome, Baldonnel and has furnished a reply thereto.

The question of the use of the aerodrome for non-military purposes has been raised on a number of occasions over the last few years. The position is that the aerodrome is required by the Air Corps for training and operational purposes. The facilities needed to meet these requirements are not available elsewhere to my Department and would have to be provided at enormous cost if the Air Corps were to leave Casement Aerodrome. There are a considerable number of members of the Permanent Defence Force employed there at present.

My Department is, however, prepared to examine any proposals relating to civilian flying at the aerodrome in the light of the Air Corps training and operational requirements.