My Department assists Ireland West Airport Knock through a range of financial support mechanisms. Since 2000, the airport has received approximately €6.5 million in operational and capital support directly from the Exchequer. This ongoing support has greatly assisted the airport to maintain viable operations and to grow its business, especially on UK routes operated by low cost air operators, and I understand the airport constantly seeks to expand its range of services. My Department will continue to assist Ireland West Airport Knock in line with the relevant EU guidelines on financing of airports and the Department of Finance capital appraisal guidelines.
A total of €100 million will be available for investment in development and safety related infrastructure in all regional airports under the Transport 21 framework. In addition to the continuation of grant assistance for essential safety and security capital expenditure under the national development plan, Ireland West Airport Knock will also be eligible for capital expenditure grants where demand for additional air services can be demonstrated and where an economic case can be made to justify increased investment. A new grant scheme is being devised at present and I expect to be in a position to announce details shortly. In anticipation of the finalisation of the new scheme, my Department is considering a number of projects for the airport which are intended to enable the developing airport to comply with international standards to meet future passenger demand.
In addition to the proposed new capital grants programme, a new scheme of operational grant assistance is being developed in line with EU guidelines which will be launched later this year.
My Department also supports regional air access through the essential air service programme, by providing financial compensation to air carriers on PSO routes, such as Knock-Dublin, where carriers would not be prepared to operate on a commercial basis.