I propose to take Questions Nos. 604 and 605 together.
As the Deputy will be aware, since VLM Airlines ceased its services to Birmingham and Luton earlier this year, there have been no scheduled air services at Waterford Airport. Securing routes and negotiating deals with airlines are commercial matters for the airports themselves and I understand that the airport authorities in Waterford are currently endeavouring to source an alternative carrier.
Last month I announced €2.7 million in funding support for the four regional airports, including €870,000 for Waterford, for safety and security projects under the Regional Airports Programme 2015-2021. The authorities in Waterford Airport are fully aware that this funding is contingent on them securing a replacement carrier for VLM and on the airport having a sustainable future.
None of the funding earmarked for Waterford will be used to extend the runway at that airport. Funding supports for capital expenditure under the Regional Airports Programme are confined to assisting the four airports concerned with implementing necessary safety and security related projects. Development projects which are designed to expand capacity, such as the proposed runway extension at Waterford, are a commercial matter for the airports themselves and are outside the scope of the Programme. I understand that the airport authorities are pursuing local interests for funding in relation to that project.