New Shannon Airport cross-party group off to a positive start
Shannon Airport Oireachtas Group includes some political representatives from Limerick
A NEWLY formed cross-party advocacy group for Shannon Airport had their first inaugural meeting, which was hailed as “positive”.
The Shannon Airport Oireachtas Group, chaired by Cathal Crowe TD, consists of 24 members.
This cross-party group includes representatives from Clare, Limerick, Galway and Tipperary, spanning a range of political affiliations including Fianna Fáil, Fine Gael, Sinn Féin, Labour, Independents, and Independent Ireland.
Mary Considine, CEO of The Shannon Airport Group, said the support of members who make up some of the newly re-constituted cross-party Shannon Airport Oireachtas Group is “particularly important” for the airport’s growth.
Speaking following the inaugural meeting, Ms Considinesaid:“We were pleased to meet with Oireachtas members who have pledged their support for Shannon Airport as a crucial national asset.
“The airport is vital for business travellers, tourists, and cargo. In today's globalised economy, connectivity and resilience are paramount, and strengthening regional airports is essential to build resilience and avoid over-dependence on one airport.”
The group is also advocating for the permanent inclusion of Shannon Airport in the Regional Airports Programme, with Ms Considine emphasising the importance of direct public transport services to Shannon Airport, saying bus and rail connections “will be crucial” and that a “significant increase in funding for the Tourism Ireland Regional Co-operative Marketing Support Scheme to bolster regional tourism is urgently required”.
Commenting on the meeting Cathal Crowe TD, chair of the Shannon Airport Oireachtas Group, said: “We are committed to advocating at every opportunity for the use of Shannon Airport and for policies that recognise the strategic importance of Shannon and promote balanced regional development.
“Strengthening Shannon Airport is crucial for building resilience in Ireland's air travel infrastructure and promoting balanced regional development.
“A priority of the Group is for an immediate review of National Aviation Policy and to seek continued State funding under the Regional Airports Programme,” said Mr Crowe.