Donal Carey
Ceist:104 Mr. D. Carey asked the Minister for Public Enterprise if she has received an offer from the private sector for the purchase of Shannon Airport; and her reply to this request. [31877/01]
Written Answers. - State Airports.
I have not received an offer from the private sector for the purchase of Shannon Airport.
As the Deputy is aware, I have stated on numerous previous occasions that my main concern in relation to whatever strategy is decided upon for Aer Rianta which owns, manages and operates the three State airports, including Shan non Airport, is that it is the correct strategy, not just for the company and its employees, but also for the users of these airports.
The dreadful events of 11 September in the US have had a dramatic impact on the global aviation industry and particularly on air travel to and from the US. There is now a range of difficulties facing the aviation sector which are being urgently addressed by me, the Government and by governments throughout the world. As the Deputy will appreciate, I am obliged to focus on these priorities at the present time, which include the critical issue of the survival of Aer Lingus, the levels of security at our airports and the Exchequer support for Irish aviation companies in the field of war risk insurance.
I will return at the appropriate time to consider, in consultation with my Government colleagues, the strategic options for the future of Aer Rianta in the long-term.