Skip to main content
Normal View

Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 11 Mar 2003

Vol. 563 No. 1

Written Answers - Air Services.

Michael D. Higgins

Question:

183 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Transport the Government's plans for the future of Aer Rianta; the steps he intends to take to address the concerns of its workers who are balloting on strike action as a result of their concerns; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7110/03]

Mary Upton

Question:

197 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Transport if he has received the report from the panel of experts considering expressions of interest in relation to a second terminal at Dublin Airport; if he intends to publish the report; if he has brought proposals to Government on the matter; when he expects a decision will be made; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7111/03]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 183 and 197 together.

There are two main issues in the programme for Government relating to the future of Aer Rianta. They are as follows: the commitments to ensure greater autonomy and independence for Shannon and Cork Airports; to examine proposals for a new independent terminal at Dublin Airport; and progress them if the evidence suggests that such a terminal will deliver significant benefits.

I established a panel of experts, chaired by Mr. Paddy Mullarkey, to examine the expressions of interest received in an independent terminal at Dublin Airport. Last month I received its report regarding this issue and today I am making arrangements for it to be published on my Department's website.

Last October I met the group of unions representing workers in Aer Rianta. I also met a delegation from SIPTU in February to discuss these two major issues in the Government's programme.

I have arranged for a process of consultation to get under way immediately with relevant interested parties and stakeholders in relation to the panel's report on the independent terminal concept at Dublin Airport. The board of Aer Rianta, the unions representing employees in the company and the Commission for Aviation Regulation will be involved in this consultation process which will also deal with the issue of greater autonomy and independence for Shannon and Cork airports.

Following this consultation process, it would be my intention to bring proposals to Government in relation to these two major issues.

Question No. 184 answered with Question No. 140.

Question No. 185 answered with Question No. 148.

Question No. 186 answered with Question No. 155.

Top
Share