Michelle Mulherin (Mayo, Fine Gael)
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964. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if a submission regarding airport policy has been submitted to the European Commission in respect of Ireland West Airport in Knock in County Mayo; if a response has been received; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11286/15]

Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael)
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​The Exchequer provides funding supports to four regional airports, Donegal, IWA Knock, Kerry and Waterford under the Regional Airports Programme. Reflecting the recommendations of the IWA Knock Study Group and the draft National Aviation Policy in respect of future funding supports for the regional airports, the 2015 - 2019 Regional Airports Programme provides for the continuance of Exchequer supports, where appropriate, to the four regional airports. The Programme will establish a definitive framework for the future development of Ireland's regional airports, including IWA Knock, and is currently with the EU Commission for consideration and approval.

There have been a series of extensive and detailed consultations over the past number of months between the Commission and the Department and my officials met with the Commission regarding this matter as recently as 24 February 2015. While it is hoped that the ongoing clarification process will be concluded shortly, the approval of the Programme is a matter for the Commission.