Michael Lowry (Tipperary North, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 305: To ask the Minister for Transport if his attention has been drawn to correspondence (details supplied); his views on the initiatives outlined in same; if he will meet with the group involved to discuss its concerns in more detail; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13904/05]

Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The correspondence to which the Deputy refers was sent to the Taoiseach, but was also copied to me and many other Deputies. The letter concerns the approaching liberalisation of the EU-US aviation market and its impact on Shannon. I have made it clear on a number of occasions that the development of an EU-US open skies regime provides many opportunities for Shannon Airport to contribute to the development of the mid-western region. I have also acknowledged that adjustment to this new regime will present challenges for the airport and that these are best addressed in the context of the business plans being finalised by the Shannon Airport Authority.