Patrick O'Donovan (Limerick, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The region from which I come is heavily dependent on Shannon Airport but it has been neglected by the Dublin Airport Authority for many years. Shannon has stagnated under the weight of the DAA because it has not been allowed the space to grow independently that Knock has enjoyed. For one reason or another, Shannon was hamstrung in its development. It is regrettable that the opportunity for Shannon to become independent is being criticised. At the end of the day there is room for both airports because they have different models to promote. What level of engagement does Knock anticipate now that Shannon will be set free of debt and allowed to aggressively pursue business? It is in the interest of both airports to work strategically together to develop the west of Ireland. The Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport recently suggested that different forms of incentives may be made available for the development of airports. However, he was clear in stating that the incentives would not be restricted to one airport over another.

It is important to bear in mind that Cork Airport officials had good reason to give out this week but they have not done so because they have not managed to come out from under the DAA's control. I am from a region whose airport has been deprived of the independence to allow it to expand that other airports in the west have had over the past number of years and this has been a detrimental blow to the region which not only includes counties Clare and Limerick but extends to County Waterford, south Kilkenny and County Kerry. It is important that both airports be allowed to develop independently and market themselves. At the end of the day, Shannon Airport is State-owned and the State has an obligation to make sure it does not fail, which is what the Minister is ensuring this week. However, given the announcement last Monday, what plans has Knock Airport to capitalise on behalf of the entire west of Ireland?