Action needed to secure future of knock airport

Mayo Fianna Fáil Deputy Dara Calleary and elected members of the party on Mayo County Council were invited to talks today by senior officials of Ireland West Airport Knock. It is understood the financial challenges facing the airport was the main item on the agenda.

Deputy Calleary has called on Taoiseach Enda Kenny to sideline the spin and honour the commitments he made about Ireland West Airport Knock. 

The Fine Gael leader made a promise before the 2011 general election that he would ‘do whatever he needed for Knock’ if he became Taoiseach. The Ballina-based TD hit out: “The time for talking is long gone and what we need to see from the Taoiseach is action, and a follow through on the commitments he gave to airport officials before he assumed office. 

“Knock airport needs a cash injection in the upcoming budget in order to secure its survival and it is up to the Taoiseach and Minister Paschal Donohoe to deliver on pre-election promises.

“This airport proves its worth on a daily basis. It employs over 100 people and has seen more than 700,000 passengers pass through its doors this year alone. It brings millions of euro into the local economy and its benefits are felt right across the west and northwest. It is a vital part of the tourism infrastructure in the region and its future must be secured.”