Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael)

The Deputy's question relates to the timeframe for making a decision on the future of Cork and Shannon Airports.

As I previously informed the Deputy, following receipt of the Booz report on the future ownership and operation of Cork and Shannon Airports, my Department is currently involved in detailed engagement with all relevant stakeholders on the issues involved. When that process has been concluded, I will bring proposals on the future of these two airports to Government as soon as possible. It will be a matter for Government then to make a decision on the issue.

My own view is that the current half-way house arrangement in place since 2004, whereby Cork and Shannon have their own boards but have limited autonomy from the DAA, cannot continue indefinitely. My objective is to have viable and sustainable operations in each of the three State airports, whatever structure is ultimately chosen by Government, and to make the necessary decisions in this regard in this year.

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