Olivia Mitchell (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
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Question 177: To ask the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the discussions he has had with the Department of Transport on the independent status of Cork and Shannon Airports in view of the ever increasing threat to the aviation industry, market turbulence, and the downturn in the overall tourism sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33861/08]

Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)
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As the Deputy will be aware, decisions regarding the status of Cork and Shannon Airports are matters for my colleague the Minister for Transport although my Department obviously monitors developments in this regard.

I understand that the Minister for Transport has recently received the Cork and Shannon business plans and expects to receive a finalised commentary on those plans by the DAA shortly when they submit their own plan under the Act. The DAA's commentary is expected to address recent trends in the aviation market, the challenges facing the State airports and the financial and operational aspects of restructuring.

Obviously good and competitive access is critical for the continued success of Irish tourism and a well managed and efficient airport system is crucial in this regard. The Department and I will continue to closely monitor developments with regard to Cork and Shannon airports and liaise as appropriate with the Department of Transport.