Alan Dillon (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

This Government has been steadfast in its support for Ireland West Airport Knock through the regional airports programme. More than €20 million has been invested in key infrastructure, safety and security projects at the airport. There were record passenger numbers again. The trajectory for that airport is important. Work is being done with the board of Ireland West Airport Knock to attract investment. Aircraft maintenance companies have set up there already. This work is important. The former Taoiseach, Leo Varadkar, and the former Minister, Simon Coveney, moved this on to ensure there was a feasibility study. The Minister of State at the time, Deputy Calleary, was also supportive in the Department. We need to work collectively to ensure it reaches its full potential. The SDZ has the potential to open up the Atlantic economic corridor. As the Deputy said, key infrastructure projects like the western rail corridor are critical to its viability.

See this speech in context