Joe Higgins
Ceist:47 Mr. Higgins (Dublin West) asked the Minister for Public Enterprise if it is intended to privatise Shannon Airport; and the procedure and timetable in this regard. [7515/99]
Written Answers. - Shannon Airport.
Last August, I asked the chairman of Aer Rianta to carry out a review of the full range of development options for the company and to reflect on the most appropriate direction for Aer Rianta in the years ahead. The need for continued development of the three State airports to meet the ever-growing demands of business and tourism is a key issue for the company in this review.
I expect Aer Rianta to submit its report to me not later than 31 March 1999. Until I have received that report and given serious consideration to its recommendations, it would not be appropriate for me to speculate or comment on the likely outcome in respect of Shannon Airport or of Aer Rianta itself. I intend to engage consult ants to assist me in my examination of Aer Rianta's report and the process for their selection is presently under way. Ultimately, any decision about the future of Aer Rianta will be one for the Government to take following a recommendation by me.