Denis Naughten
Question:1268 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Transport if he has satisfied himself that the upgrading of Waterford Regional Airport is progressing satisfactorily; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16685/02]
Written Answers. - Regional Airports.
Under the regional airports measure of the national development plan, a sum of €1.895 million has been allocated to assist with necessary infrastructural upgrades and improvements at Waterford Regional Airport for the period 2002 to 2003. The projects approved for grant aid relate mainly to safety and security and include the provision of new x-ray equipment, runway and apron improvements, navigational aids and the construction of a hangar for the sea/air rescue service. I understand that the planning and design stages are well advanced in most projects, and that a number of projects have recently reached tender stage. Waterford Regional Airport received approximately €55,000 towards the cost of fire and safety equipment in late 2001.
In addition to the NDP commitment, Waterford Regional Airport received an allocation of €410,000 this year under my Department's grant scheme for assisting marketing, safety and security measures at the regional airports. This represented an increase of 60% on the allocation for Waterford airport under this scheme last year.