Michael Ferris
Question:84 Mr. Ferris asked the Minister for Defence his views on the suggestion that Baldonnel should be used as a civilian airport; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20438/99]
Written Answers. - Baldonnel Aerodrome.
Frances Fitzgerald
Question:156 Ms Fitzgerald asked the Minister for Defence the negotiations, if any, he has had in relation to the use of Baldonnell as a civil airport; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20594/99]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 84 and 156 together.
In recent times a number of approaches have been made by private concerns regarding the possible use of facilities at Baldonnel Aerodrome. My main concern, in examining these proposals, would be to protect the military aviation interests at the aerodrome. The question of extending usage of these facilities for hire or reward requires careful consideration as it may have implications regarding licensing of the facility for commercial use. However, the greater utilisation of this underused resource could have benefits for both military and civil aviation in Ireland.
The use of Baldonnel for civil aviation purposes is a matter for consideration by the Minister for Public Enterprise in consultation with myself in the context of overall airports policy generally. In that regard I am aware that advisers have been appointed jointly by the Minister for Public Enterprise and the Minister for Finance to assist in the examination of Aer Rianta's report on its future strategic direction.
This report will help in assessing the position of Baldonnel against that wider policy backdrop. I understand that the advisers will complete their work in the near future. Following consideration of the report it is intended that the Minister for Public Enterprise and myself will report to Government with specific proposals in respect of Baldonnel.