Michael Lowry (Tipperary North, Independent)
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Question 507: To ask the Minister for Transport his views on the need to conduct a study proposed by an organisation (details supplied); if he will address the need for such an urgent study; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19981/05]

Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)
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I do not believe that a study of the kind proposed by the Deputy is required. The restructuring of the State airports, including Shannon, is intended to enhance their regional focus and I am encouraged by the close co-operation between the new Shannon Airport Authority and the other regional development bodies in the area.

Work is underway in my Department on a ten-year transport investment framework which will address the future infrastructural requirements of the mid-west region. As the Deputy will also be aware, the restructuring of the State airports, including Shannon, will be progressed in the light of the assessment in due course, by both myself and the Minister for Finance, of the business plans which are under preparation by the three airport authorities.

As I have stated in previous replies, the development of an EU US open-skies regime provides many opportunities for Shannon Airport to contribute to the development of the mid-west. The liberalisation of the aviation market between the EU and US will mean more, not fewer, opportunities for Shannon to develop new routes into North America.