The position regarding any proposal to develop a new airport for Galway is a matter for the promoters and sponsors of any such proposal. I have received no proposal regarding a new airport at Oranmore, Co. Galway.
The long standing policy of my Department as regards the development of aviation facilities is that private interests may provide and develop airports in whatever location they wish, provided the requirements of the Irish Aviation Authority are met and planning permission is secured. It is a matter for the promoters of any such development to satisfy themselves that an airport can function as a viable commercial entity.
The Deputy will be aware that in 1998 I allocated a grant of £3.1 million to Galway Airport for a project to extend and widen the existing runway. This project has experienced a number of delays in connection with the planning process and in acquiring all of the necessary lands required for the runway extension. However, the airport authorities secured planning permission from An Bord Pleanála in April of this year and I understand the process of acquiring two remaining parcels of land is currently in train. All going well, it is anticipated that this project should be completed in the autumn.