Austin Deasy
Question:10 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Public Enterprise if, as a result of her recent visit to Waterford Airport, she has formulated plans to assist the board to ensure the future viability of the airport. [17297/00]
Other Questions. - Waterford Airport.
A marketing grant of £155,000 has been allocated to Waterford to assist in the marketing and promotion of the airport in the current year.
In addition, under the national development plan, a total of £3 million has been allocated for the two regional airports in the south and east region, namely Waterford and Kerry Airports. I am aware that the Southern and Eastern Regional Assembly is seeking to increase this allocation to £6 million, and that request is being considered by the Minister for Finance. I met representatives of Waterford Airport earlier this year and again last week and they indicated that they were contemplating a £1.2 million runway upgrade. I expect that Waterford Airport will submit specific capital expenditure proposals.
I am delighted with the Minister's reply and the assurance she has given to Waterford Airport which is 60 miles from Cork Airport and 70 miles from Shannon Airport. Farranfore Airport is 60 miles from both Shannon and Cork. Given that south west Cork has no rail system will that area be considered for an airport? Given that there are no services in the area, that we are 140 miles from Shannon—
The Deputy should not use Question Time to make statements. Question Time is for the purpose of asking questions.
Has the Minister any plans for setting up an airport in Bantry?
That is a separate question from that tabled.
If somebody from Bantry comes forward with a commercial proposal I will certainly look at it.
Thank you. I am glad to hear that commitment from the Minister.