Vol. 456 No. 8
10 Mr. M. McDowell asked the Minister for Transport, Energy and Communications if he has satisfied himself with the level of usage of regional airports; the steps, if any, he proposes to take to encourage greater utilisation in view of the substantial level of public funds invested and the potential for development of regional trade, particularly tourism; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14713/95]
21 Ms O'Donnell asked the Minister for Transport, Energy and Communications if he has satisfied himself with the level of usage of regional airports; the steps, if any, he proposes to take to encourage greater utilisation in view of the substantial level of public funds invested and the potential for development of regional trade, particularly tourism; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14714/95]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 10 and 21 together.
The regional airports are owned and operated by private undertakings. The development plans, traffic potential and viability of these airports are primarily matters for the individual airport companies.
I share the Deputies' views about the important role of the regional airports in tourism development and attracting inward industrial investment. Traffic at the six regional airports fell by 51 per cent between 1990 and 1993. This was due mainly to diversion of traffic by surface transport to Dublin Airport to avail of the relatively low fares available there on cross-Channel routes. The finances of the airport companies were affected by this traffic downturn and they were unable to give the necessary attention to marketing the airports. Assistance for this purpose, totalling £1.5 million was made available to the six airports in 1993.
Also, a programme of essential air services has been introduced between the airports and Dublin Airport, in accordance with EU Council Regulation 2408/92 to guarantee a minimum level of air services to the regions. Four regional airports are included in this programme — Kerry, Galway, Sligo and Donegal — and so far operating contracts have been awarded for the Kerry/Dublin and Galway/Dublin routes. The provision in my Department's Vote for 1995 for subventing these four routes is £1.5 million.
