Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 16 Apr 2003

Vol. 565 No. 4

Written Answers. - Regional Airports.

Tony Killeen

Question:

153 Mr. Killeen asked the Minister for Transport the level of funding he intends to make available to the Shannon region and Shannon funds, currently provided by Aer Rianta, when this company is replaced by three State companies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11339/03]

Tony Killeen

Question:

160 Mr. Killeen asked the Minister for Transport his plans for a company (details supplied) following the proposed break up of Aer Rianta; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11329/03]

Tony Killeen

Question:

161 Mr. Killeen asked the Minister for Transport his plans for Aer Rianta International following the proposed break up of Aer Rianta; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11330/03]

Tony Killeen

Question:

163 Mr. Killeen asked the Minister for Transport his plans to ensure that sufficient funds are available for capital works and marketing to enable the new State companies which he proposes to establish at Cork and Shannon airports to compete with Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11333/03]

Minister for Transport (Mr. Brennan)

I propose to answer Questions Nos. 153, 160, 161 and 163 together.

The two main issues in the programme for Government in relation to the future of Aer Rianta are the commitments to ensure greater autonomy and independence for Shannon and Cork airports and 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 have arranged for a process of consultation which is currently under way with relevant interested parties and stake holders in relation to both of these issues.

Following this consultation process, I intend to bring proposals to Government in relation to these two major issues. In framing proposals for Government, I will take into account the future position of Aer Rianta International and the Great Southern Hotels Group within the Aer Rianta group. The State airports are not currently in receipt of any Exchequer support and no change is envisaged in that position in the context of the initiatives currently under consideration.