Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 27 June 2013
36. Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will report on discussions with the management of Ireland West Airport; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30901/13]
View answer48. Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his plans to deliver on proposals by Ireland West Airport, Knock, to create 500 new jobs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30902/13]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 36 and 48 together.
These questions relate to future development at Knock Airport, including employment potential.
As Deputies will be aware, the Ireland West Airport Knock (IWAK) Study Group was established, under the Chairmanship of Deputy John O'Mahony, following a meeting of the Airport Board with the Taoiseach, myself and Minister of State Ring. The Group, while taking account of available funding and State Aid and Competition rules, is examining how the airport can survive and be further developed having regard to the implications for other regional airports.
The Group comprises representatives of the Airport Board and management, Mayo County Council, regional Business and Tourism sectors, the Departments of Transport, Tourism and Sport, Finance, Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation and Enterprise Ireland.
Three meetings of the Group have taken place, two in Knock and one in Dublin and good progress continues to be made. For example, I am aware that the Group has already carried out an initial examination, including a survey of industry, of how the airport can best serve Industry needs and support economic development in its catchment area. However, it is recognised that a substantial body of work needs to be carried out before the Group can complete its report.
Following the conclusion of a tender process, the Study Group has selected Ernst & Young consultants to assist the Group in part of their work. This consultancy will be jointly funded by my Department, Mayo County Council and the airport. The consultants have been asked to develop scenarios for a secure financially viable future for IWAK.
The IWAK Study Group expects to submit a report to myself and to the Taoiseach by Autumn 2013.
