Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I understand the fears outlined by the Deputy in terms of it being an economic catastrophe, in the words of the chief executive of the DAA, if the second runway is not built. Although that is very colourful language, there are real dangers if the runway is not built. There is a build-up of traffic at Dublin Airport such that one or two delays may cause congestion, which emphasises the seriousness, urgency and importance of the runway project. Capacity at Dublin Airport is a serious issue. The Department and the DAA were somewhat taken by surprise by the sudden spike in passenger numbers. In 2007-08 the DAA did not act on the extant planning permission because of falling passenger numbers. It is very important that there be no reduction or dilution of our commitment to the project. I thank Deputies Robert Troy and Kevin O'Keeffe for their commitment to it; it is a national imperative. We must not tolerate unacceptable congestion at Dublin Airport because it is of such important to trade, tourism, prosperity, employment and other matters in the State. The runway project is being pursued as an imperative and we do not see it falling behind schedule or not happening in any circumstance.