Michael Harty (Clare, Independent)
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920. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the way in which the proposed plans for a third terminal at Dublin Airport are consistent with Project Ireland 2040 plans to achieve 75% population growth outside of Dublin (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45415/18]

Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent)
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As the deputy will be aware, consultants were appointed last year, in line with a commitment outlined in the National Aviation Policy, to conduct a high-level strategic capacity review of Ireland’s State airports. This Review was delivered to me at the end of August and provides a very helpful assessment which is both specific about short terms actions as well as identifying further work that needs to be undertaken to assist in decision-making for the longer term to 2050. To ensure that there is an open approach to the policy options for Dublin Airport, including any decision on a third terminal, I have just commenced a process of consultation on the Review in which all stakeholders will have an opportunity to set out their views. When I have all the views and information available to me, I will carefully consider the issues and make recommendations to Government in early 2019. 

The Review took into account the policy objectives of supporting the roles of Cork and Shannon Airports as key tourism and business gateways for their regions, along with the development of Dublin as a secondary hub.  This is in line with the National Aviation Policy which recognises the roles that both Cork and Shannon play in the regions. The smaller regional airports in Donegal, Knock, Kerry and Waterford are dealt with separately under the Regional Airports Programme 2015-2019.  As part of the negotiations on the Budget, the deputy may be aware, that I secured an increase in the allocation for the Programme for 2019 – going from around €13m in 2018 to around €21m in 2019. 

Project Ireland 2040 and the National Development Plan 2017-2027 support high quality International connectivity investments consistent with sectorial priorities already defined through the National Aviation Policy. Significant investment in Ireland’s airports, and in Dublin Airport, as Ireland’s main international gateway, will play a major role in safeguarding and enhancing Ireland’s international connectivity which is fundamental to our international competitiveness, trading performance and attractiveness to foreign direct investment. Our focus remains is on ensuring that we have the optimum network for Ireland given the importance of international connectivity for the well-being of the country.  That involves having a strong national airport in our capital city, as well as strong regional airports in Cork and Shannon, complemented by the smaller regional airports.  I do not accept the view that it is a question of developing either Dublin or the other airports around the country. They all have their roles to play for the Irish economy.