Austin Deasy
Ceist:80 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Public Enterprise if she will commission a feasibility study on the suitability of Baldonnel Aerodrome as a dual purpose airport for use by the Air Corps and commercial interests. [22682/98]
Written Answers. - Air Services.
The question of using Baldonnel as an aerodrome for civil aviation purposes is one which falls to be considered by me, following consultation with my colleague, the Minister for Defence, against the backdrop of an overall strategy for the airport sector in Ireland.
As the Deputy knows, I have asked the board of Aer Rianta to conduct a fundamental review to establish what would be the most appropriate strategic direction for the company and it will submit a report to me in February 1999. I am firmly of the view that the question of introducing commercial airport facilities at Baldonnel should be considered within the overall context of that strategic review.
I intend, therefore, in the light of my own scrutiny of Aer Rianta's report early next year, to give full consideration to all aspects of airport policy, including the question of how best to ensure the provision of adequate airport infrastructure in the areas of greatest demand.