Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 17 April 2014
274. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his plans to implement the recommendations of a company (details supplied) in respect of the operation of Cork Airport; his plans for the future development of the airport; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18480/14]
View answerAs the Deputy is aware, the 2011 Booz & Co. Report on the Future Ownership and Operation of Cork and Shannon Airports found that Cork Airport performs well under DAA ownership and management and operates to a sustainable business model. Following on from this report the Government decided in November 2012 that the existing ownership of Cork Airport by the Dublin Airport Authority (DAA) would be maintained for the present.
The Deputy will also be aware that DAA has statutory responsibility to operate, manage and develop both Dublin and Cork Airports and as such the future development of Cork Airport is a matter for the Company. Given these responsibilities and conscious of the need to address falling passenger numbers at Cork, DAA is actively engaged with a wide range of airline customers to continue to promote the airport and its hinterland. It has also established a Development Council for Cork Airport to provide for strong engagement with, and alignment among, key stakeholders in the Cork region. This Council will serve to foster a common understanding, particularly at local level, of issues of concern, potential opportunities for growth and the operating performance of the airport. I wish the Council success in its endeavours as we all want to see a prosperous Cork Airport.
