Jerry Cowley (Mayo, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 114: To ask the Minister for Transport if he will review the security situation at Ireland West Airport, Knock as there is concern that the cover is not sufficient due to the rapid growth of this airport and the increased passenger numbers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6762/07]

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

Regulation (EC) No. 2320/2002 of the European Parliament and of the Council establishing common rules in the field of civil aviation security has been in force since January 2003. This Regulation and a number of implementing regulations have been adopted into our National Civil Aviation Security Programme (NCASP).

A common position of the Transport Council on a Regulation to replace Regulation 2320/2002 was adopted on 11 December 2006 and is currently before the European Parliament for a second reading. The proposed new Regulation sets out to clarify, simplify and further harmonise requirements in relation to civil aviation security with the objective of enhancing overall levels of security.

I am satisfied that the aviation security practices and procedures implemented at Irish airports conform to the highest standards set down in the European Union common rules. These practices and procedures are subject to monitoring by my Department's Aviation Security Division and are also the subject of periodic reviews by international organisations, such as the EU Commission and the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO).

It is not the practice to comment on specific security measures in place or that may be implemented at Irish airports. However, aviation security arrangements at Irish airports are kept under continuous review by my Department and the National Civil Aviation Security Committee, which is chaired by a senior official from my Department. The Committee comprises representatives of Government Departments, State Airports, airlines, the Garda Siochána, the Defence Forces, Customs and Excise, An Post, Irish Aviation Authority, the Irish Airline Pilots' Association and the Regional Airports.

On 21 February last I announced that the Government had given approval for capital grant allocations amounting to €86 million under a new scheme for the six regional airports. In the case of Ireland West Airport Knock, a total of up to €27.1 million is being allocated which includes €9.9 million for safety and security projects.