Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

This was under consideration for quite a long time, as Deputy Martin will be aware. I had the privilege of raising it with President Obama on two occasions in America and I am glad that, after quite a deal of difficulty, the decision was made. It was not all political, as the Deputy will be aware.

My understanding is that a number of airports throughout the country will benefit from this. Obviously, Norwegian Air is looking at how best that can be expanded. Its may be because of pre-clearance, I do not know. Obviously Cork is particularly hoping to avail of its best benefit from this. I believe Norwegian Air cannot use all of its larger aircraft at the airport due to the length of the runway. That is an issue that the airport authority will consider. Shannon, Belfast and Knock may also be considered in time.

I should say to the Deputy that every region of the country has shown growth. On the many occasions I have been in Cork, things are improving, as I am sure the Deputy will agree. This is a commercial decision that has the support of everybody. Let the flights begin, as they say. It is to be hoped Cork will continue to benefit from it in the time ahead, but we would like to see that benefit spread throughout the country, as the Deputy says. We have Belfast, Knock, Shannon, Cork and Dublin so it is to be hoped that people who wish to fly to America have regional spread and plenty of opportunity.

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