MINISTER OF State at the Department of Transport, Hildegarde Naughton T.D. has today announced the allocation of almost €16.4 million in Exchequer funding to regional airports under the Regional Airports Programme 2021-2025.
Almost €6.6 million has been allocated to regional airports at Donegal, Ireland West (Knock) and Kerry and over €9.8 million has been allocated to regional State airports at Shannon and Cork.
The allocations will contribute towards capital investment in the areas of safety and security at airports, whilst also supporting projects with a sustainability focus.
Announcing these allocations, Minister of State Naughton said:
"‘Government has maintained a strong commitment to the aviation sector during the Covid crisis and has allocated an unprecedented €161m in aviation specific supports, in 2021 alone, to our airports. I am delighted today to be building on this commitment, as Irish aviation enters the recovery period.
"Today’s announcement represents Government’s commitment to continue to support Ireland’s regional airports to remain financially sustainable as they prepare for growth into the future. This capital funding will support a great number of safety and security related capital projects, ensuring that airports can continue to remain compliant with regulatory requirements in these areas. I am pleased to announce also that, in line with the broadening of the scope of the Programme, a significant number of this year’s projects have a sustainability focus, facilitating the sustainable growth of the sector."
Shannon Group chief executive Mary Considine welcomed the announcement of the funding for the airport, saying it would enable the airport to invest in vital infrastructure and rebuild in the aftermath of the pandemic.
"Throughout the pandemic we have endeavoured to improve our airport and make the passenger experience more enjoyable and easier. We were the first state airport to install technology which allowed us remove the 100ml rule on liquids in cabin bags, and we are committed to looking at further innovations across our Shannon Campus."
