Frances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Aviation policy will of course be impacted by the national planning framework and the regional plans. In every contact that I have had with foreign multinationals, I have spoken of the importance of companies taking the opportunity to locate in regional areas. We have seen major successes in the Shannon area as regards aviation, particularly in terms of leasing. The Action Plan for Jobs, which I will publish in January, will refer to Shannon as a centre of excellence in aviation, leasing and so on and will place particular emphasis on how that can be grown further. Ireland is regarded as a centre of excellence. Shannon leasing and the work of Shannon Holdings have developed considerably.

As a capital city, Dublin is always attractive in terms of the balance that the Deputy has described. That is in common with other countries. As we focus more on regional development, however, passenger numbers at Shannon will change. Focusing more on our regional tourism policy will, given its potential, support the development in the region the Deputy seeks.

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