Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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650. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the degree to which he sees opportunities to advance the possible development of air transport hubs around some of our regional airports; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5015/15]

Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael)
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I understand that the Deputy is referring to development plans to increase passenger numbers at the four regional airports of Donegal, Kerry, IWA Knock and Waterford.  Any plans to increase services or to introduce new routes are entirely commercial in nature and are a matter for the board and management of the individual airports.  I believe that there are opportunities, particularly in the context of growing inbound passengers, and would encourage the airports to use them for the benefit of both the business and tourism sectors in their regions.

In recognition of the contribution that these airports make to balanced regional development, particularly having regard to our economic recovery, the Government has decided to continue providing Exchequer support under a new Regional Airports Programme 2015 - 2019 which is currently with the European Commission for approval.