Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 3 February 2005
132 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Transport if he will carry out a full impact study on the operational and financial viability of Shannon Airport before any job losses take place; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3200/05]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe new Shannon Airport Authority was incorporated in September 2004 and, in line with the framework provided by the State Airports Act 2004, it is envisaged that the new authority would, in due course, own and operate Shannon Airport.
In accordance with the 2004 Act, each of the new airport authorities, including the Shannon Airport Authority, is required to prepare comprehensive business plans for their airport and this work is currently ongoing. The formulation of these business plans will be a key aspect of achieving operational and financial readiness on which both I and the Minister for Finance must be satisfied before the assets of Shannon and Cork Airports are vested in the new airport authorities.
Among the measures required for the future development of Shannon Airport on a successful and sustainable basis in an increasingly competitive environment are traffic growth and the need to address the airport's cost base. It has been recognised for some time that costs in Shannon are high relative to comparable airports. Under the overall stewardship of the Dublin Airport Authority, the Shannon Airport Authority is seeking to address this issue in consultation with union representatives.
I am confident that the new boards of the three airport authorities will successfully meet the challenges ahead.
