Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 18 October 2012
54. Deputy Martin Heydon asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will develop and publish an aviation policy for the State, setting out a clear vision for the development of this sector over the coming decade; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45208/12]
View answer60. Deputy Jerry Buttimer asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will develop and publish an aviation policy for the State, setting out a clear vision for the development of this sector over the coming decade; if Cork Airport will be a central component to this policy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44936/12]
View answer68. Deputy Martin Heydon asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if, in the event of a new national aviation policy being prepared, he will consider the status and regulation of small local airfields and local flying activity which has an impact on local businesses and residents; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45209/12]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 54, 60 and 68 together.
These questions relate to the development of a new civil aviation policy.
The primary aim of our aviation policy at present as set out in my Department's Statement of Strategy 2011-2014 is to ensure that the sector supports Ireland's economic and social goals in a safe, competitive, cost-effective and sustainable manner and to ensure maximum connectivity for Ireland with the rest of the world.
Given the critical importance of the sector to the economy, I have decided to launch a review process for the development of a new civil aviation policy for Ireland. To this end I have invited representatives from all stakeholders to attend a one day conference on 3 December 2012 to launch this process. I expect to have this process concluded and the new civil aviation policy published by the end of 2013.
Cork airport is an important part of Ireland's civil aviation infrastructure and this will be taken account of as part of the review process. The Government has already decided that the future of Cork airport is best safeguarded by it remaining for the present as part of the DAA.
With regard to general aviation (private flights etc.), these matters are regulated by the Irish Aviation Authority and at present, I have no plans to alter the current arrangements for regulatory oversight of this sector. However, these matters will be considered within the aviation policy review and I would welcome the Deputy's views on this matter.
