Denis Naughten
Ceist:1266 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Transport if he favours the improvement and expansion of facilities and services at Cork Airport; his proposals in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16683/02]
Written Answers. - Air Services.
Denis Naughten
Ceist:1292 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Transport the investment programme for the upgrading of Cork Airport, including a timescale for the development; his views on whether the downturn in the airline industry will have any effect on this proposed development; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16709/02]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 1266 and 1292 together.
It is recognised by Aer Rianta that Cork Airport needs significant investment to cater for the growth in traffic through the airport in recent years and the company is well advanced with its plans for a major new capital investment programme in infrastructure and facilities. The main feature of this programme, estimated to cost €130 million, is a 25,000 sq. m. terminal building. Planning permission for this project was secured earlier this year and Aer Rianta is evaluating tenders for the works. The company expects that the work will take two years to complete and the aim would be to have the new terminal ready for Cork's year as European city of culture in 2005. I have made it clear that this project will proceed, whatever the outcome of my current examination of options for greater autonomy for Cork Airport.