Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 28 March 2012
9Deputy Michael Colreavy asked the Minister for Transport; Tourism and Sport his views on the future of Galway Airport in view of rumours that a company (details supplied) might be interested in purchasing it. [16858/12]
Amharc ar fhreagraI have no information on the matters raised by the Deputy. Galway Airport is a privately owned entity. Its future plans, including any possible sale, are matters for the owners and management of the company in which I have no function.
The interest is whether the airport in question will be sold. We need to save the jobs at the airport, as well as the region, the west, which has been badly affected by the economic downturn. It is in our interest to assist the airport as it has been subsidised - I assume that this is still the case - by the State. It is an important asset to the people in the west, particularly for tourism.
The Minister already stated he had no information on the matter. However, if he has anything more to add, he can.
The airport is not a publicly owned but privately owned entity. I understand the current owners are looking for a buyer but I have no involvement in that. It is no longer subsidised by the State. The only airport subsidies are regional airports in the west are for Ireland West Airport at Knock which obviously will not be able to go for ever either.
