Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The Deputy acknowledged the constraints I am under in regard to discussing the Heathrow slots for Cork Airport. I am however aware of the strong regional dimensions of national connectivity, as Deputy Dooley outlined very clearly in previous discussions. Access to our country is a vital component in the evaluation of any potential offer. All of our airports make an essential contribution in this regard. There is more at stake than a share price, important though that may be.

In regard to marketing support and further changes to the management structure for Cork Airport, in 2014 alone Tourism Ireland invested €385,000 in co-operative campaigns featuring Cork Airport as a gateway to Ireland. A large proportion of that money focused exclusively on Cork Airport. I recognise that the Cork region has much to offer from a tourism point of view, not to mention the important foreign direct investment and local enterprise located in the region. Cork Airport is strategically located close to the Wild Atlantic Way and is already taking advantage of that. Previous marketing campaigns have made a considerable contribution to supporting demand at the airport.

In regard to further autonomy at the airport, the changes that have recently been made to the management structure are bedding down. These changes including giving the airport representation on the board of the DAA. I am sure these representatives will play an important role in responding to changes. In regard to the role Cork Airport can play in national aviation policy, I am giving careful consideration to this policy in light of recent developments. I intend to investigate what framework we can put in place to ensure all of our airports have a secure future. Obviously, a number of factors are at play which I am not in a position to influence but it is important to me that Cork Airport has a secure and prosperous future. With the people and structures currently in place, I believe it is well positioned to respond to the challenges it faces.

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