Noel Rock (Dublin North West, Fine Gael)
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328. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the cause of the downgrading of Shannon Airport; the economic impacts for the region; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17050/17]

Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent)
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​Shannon Airport Authority (SAA), a subsidiary of Shannon Group plc, has statutory responsibility for the management and operation of Shannon Airport and as such the issue raised by the Deputy is an operational matter for the company.  That said, SAA is conscious of the need to control its costs so that it can remain competitive and continue to attract new airline business in an increasingly competitive international marketplace. In this regard, one of the proposals that the company has had initial discussions with staff and union representatives is to operate at Category 9 on a flexible basis rather than operate permanently at that level, 24/7, all year 'round. This would contribute to a more efficient operating model at the airport without any material impact on flight operations. I understand that this arrangement will arise in any event, at nightimes, for a temporary period of about 26 weeks as a consequence of the resurfacing of the main runway at Shannon which is due to get underway on 25th April next.

I have forwarded the Question to SAA for direct reply. If the Deputy does not receive a reply within ten working days, please advise my Private Office.