Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 22 June 2023
36. Deputy Bríd Smith asked the Minister for Transport if he is aware of and supports plans by the DAA to extend its operations; if his Department has had any discussion with the DAA about planned expansions and increases in aviation travel; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30117/23]
View answerAs the deputy will be aware, daa has the statutory responsibility to operate, manage and develop Dublin Airport, including all infrastructure required to support connectivity.
Within this statutory mandate, daa is expected to work in support of the Government’s aviation policy as articulated in the National Aviation Policy published in 2015. daa must also have regard to wider Government policies including the National Development Plan 2021-2030 and the Climate Action Plan.
Dublin Airport is a key driver of growth in our economy and the international gateway for trade, inward investment and tourism. In addition, and as the Deputy will be aware, Census 2022 showed that Ireland's population increased by 8% between 2016 and 2022 and by 31% since 2002. While alternatives to air travel such as rail can provide essential connectivity for many of our European neighbours, we do not have similar options as an island nation and air transport will therefore remain essential for our economy and our people.
In line with the National Aviation Policy, the Government supports the development of Dublin Airport as a hub airport with the necessary capacity to connect Ireland to key existing and emerging global markets. My Department and I meet regularly with the management of Dublin Airport where we discuss a variety of issues, including its plans for development in line with its statutory mandate.
The daa’s Capital Investment Programme 2020+ (CIP2020+) includes a number of capacity development projects designed to accommodate a forecast medium term demand level of 40m passengers per annum by 2030. The CIP will include the delivery of new piers and aircraft stands and will also facilitate a number of infrastructure projects that will enable the daa to deliver on its commitment to reduce carbon emissions by 51% by 2030 and to net-zero by 2050.
