Hildegarde Naughton (Galway West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

There was funding for capital investment. A process will also open up for regional airports to access operational support under the Government's regional airports programme. Historically, Ireland West Airport Knock has been well supported by Government-backed programmes. Last year it received €9.4 million in Exchequer funding. This year, I intend to bring forward a regional airports programme for a five-year period starting in 2021. That will ensure ongoing capital and operational supports for airports such as Ireland West Airport Knock.

I assure the Deputy that the Government recognises the value of our regional airports in relation to connectivity, tourism, the local area and jobs within the regions. I will continue to work with the aviation stakeholders, as will my officials. It is in everyone's interest that the airports, like all businesses, are in a good position to contribute to Ireland's post-pandemic recovery. That is a commitment that I give the Deputy today.

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