Kieran O'Donnell (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister for his comprehensive response. In respect of the submission made by Shannon Group to him and his officials on 21 March last, he indicated that his officials and the Shannon Group are exploring what options are available to procure air services to other hubs, including support from the tourism agency and co-operative marketing activity. Time is of the essence. Brexit is on the horizon. From the point of view of Brexit readiness and Project Ireland 2040, which aims to achieve regional growth to complement Dublin, when does the Minister expect a decision to be made on the various options for progressing major hub connectivity between Shannon Group and other European airports such Frankfurt, Amsterdam and Paris? The key issue is to secure major European hub connectivity so that we are Brexit-proof and we can drive passenger numbers into Ireland and alleviate pressure on Dublin Airport. This would allow more people to fly into Shannon Airport where significant capacity is available. The airport would be able to deal with well in excess of 2 million extra passengers. As with Dublin Airport, Shannon has US pre-clearance. The airport has a great deal to offer. Will the Minister give a timeline by which his Department's formal consideration of the various options will conclude in order that Shannon Group can proceed with speed to get European route hub connectivity in place?