James Browne (Wexford, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

528. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the position regarding funding runway extension works at Waterford Airport; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16222/19]

Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

As the Deputy will be aware, I am currently in the process of considering a funding proposal related to the expansion of the runway at Waterford Airport.  The estimated cost of the expansion project is €12m. Funding of €5m is being sought from Exchequer funds, with a further €7m to be provided by private investors and local authorities.

Studies on the proposal have been completed by Ernst & Young (EY) and PWC on behalf of my Department and Waterford Airport respectively.

In recent weeks, I sought more information from the airport on certain aspects of the expansion proposal and I also sought the views of my colleague Ministers with policy responsibility relating to regional and enterprise development.  All views and information have now been received by my Department. 

As the Deputy will appreciate, the proposal must be assessed against national aviation and transport policy objectives as well as broader Government policies such as Project Ireland 2040 and the National Planning Framework.

It is my intention, having fully considered the latest information from the Airport as well as the views of my Ministerial colleagues, to revert to Government in the coming weeks with a view to decision on the matter.