Cecilia Keaveney (Donegal North East, Fianna Fail)
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Question 223: To ask the Minister for Transport the position in relation to having the runway at Derry City Airport extended to facilitate the larger aeroplanes in use; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4150/05]

Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)
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Last year, Derry City Council submitted proposals for the development of City of Derry Airport to the Department of Transport and to the relevant authorities in Northern Ireland which, of course, have lead responsibility in this area. A report on all aspects of the proposed development, including the extent of works required to make the airport fully operational and compliant with safety requirements, is being considered by the Department following consultation with the relevant authorities in Northern Ireland.

Olivia Mitchell (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
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Question 224: To ask the Minister for Transport if, in view of his recent trade mission to China and the need to develop long haul flight capacity from Dublin Airport, the Government intends to direct the DAA to either extend the existing runway or to fast track the construction of a second runway. [4187/05]

Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)
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I am not aware of any evidence to suggest that infrastructure at Dublin Airport, including the capacity of its runways, is acting as a constraint or barrier to the development of long haul routes. The proposed new parallel runway is required to meet projected traffic growth and to ensure that the runway capacity at Dublin Airport continues to cater for the future requirements of airlines and passengers. In recognition of the long lead-in time on planning approvals, construction and commissioning, the Dublin Airport Authority submitted its planning application for the new runway to Fingal County Council last December. Subject to planning permission, this will ensure that the additional capacity provided by the new runway will be available and operational when needed in about six years time.