Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 29 Mar 1995

Vol. 451 No. 3

Written Answers. - Upgrading of Airport Facilities.

Kathleen Lynch

Question:

27 Kathleen Lynch asked the Minister for Transport, Energy and Communications the progress, if any, which has been made in efforts to obtain an upgrading of the European status of Knock and Galway facilities from airport facilities to airports; the effect, if any, such an upgrading will have on the provision of EU funding; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6493/95]

Minister for Transport, Energy and Communications (Mr. Lowry)

I assume the Deputy is referring to the European Commission proposal for a European Parliament and Council Decision on the development of a trans-European airport network.

This proposal provides that the trans-European airport network shall comprise airports of common interest situated within the territory of the Community which are open to commercial air traffic and which comply with certain specified criteria. Inclusion of airports in the network is a prerequisite to enable these airports to qualify for EU funding.

The proposal is at present being considered by the European Parliament and the Council's working group.

Knock and Galway Airports are licensed for commercial air traffic and are listed in the Commission's proposal as part of the trans-European airport network. This will render these airports eligible for EU funding, when the decision is adopted by the European Parliament and the Council.

I should add that at the six regional airports, including Knock and Galway, the 1989-1993 peripherality programme provided for a comprehensive range of investments in facilities and the upgrading of assets at a total cost of over £21 million. As a result of this investment, the regional airports have the capacity to cater for significant increases in traffic volumes, which should enable these airports to make a major contribution to regional development in the areas in which they are located.

While inclusion in the trans-European network will render the airports eligible for EU capital assistance, policy is being directed towards increasing traffic at these airports and further assistance for capital investment is not envisaged at the present time.