Vol. 553 No. 5
333 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Transport if he will establish an Aer Rianta sub board for Cork and Shannon Airports in line with the commitment given by his predecessor; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14604/02]
The new programme for Government includes a commitment that as part of the process of transforming Aer Rianta, we will ensure that Shannon and Cork Airports have greater autonomy and independence. I am acutely mindful of the genuine and intense sense of goodwill on the part of local interests in the success and development of their airports at Shannon and Cork and I fully appreciate that local business and tourism interests have a strong interest in the continued development and growth of these airports.
I am satisfied, therefore, that there is a case for greater local involvement in decisions affecting the development of Shannon and Cork Airports and in this regard over the coming months I will examine options which can best harness the local interest and goodwill that exists towards these two important facilities which act as major drivers of economic growth and development for their catchment areas.
