Martin Kenny (Sligo-Leitrim, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

The Minister referred to increased capabilities and capacities and that these will be in place by September. The summer will be the busiest period. We all acknowledge and understand this fact. Last year, there were extensive delays and many problems for people coming and going from the airport, and I think the Minister will acknowledge this himself. The issue with car parking needs to be dealt with. As I said, a car park has been sitting idle for several years. I think it closed before the Covid-19 pandemic. The DAA has attempted to purchase the car park but this has fallen foul of the competition authorities and cannot go ahead. We find, therefore, that the car park is still lying empty. I ask that the Minister intervene and ensure that either the DAA or one of the private parking providers will be able to lease this facility at least for the summer period to ensure the pressure is taken off car parking at the airport. I acknowledge that the Minister's intention is to have fewer people driving to the airport and to have public transport in place, but it is not in place for very many people. I know of instances where people tried to get the bus to the airport but the buses coming from rural areas were full. People have had serious issues trying to get public transport the airport.

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