Time for honesty from Dempsey over Cork Airport – Clune

Transport Minister Noel Dempsey must spell out his plans for Cork Airport and end growing uncertainty over the airport’s status, instead of selectively leaking information to the media, Fine Gael Cork South Central TD Deirdre Clune has said.

Deputy Clune was speaking following reports that the issue of independence for Cork and Shannon Airports has been kicked to touch for another three years.

“Minister Dempsey should stop fudging and spell out his plans for Cork Airport. He obviously has a plan for the three State airports but has been indulging in selective leaks to the media. Meanwhile, Cork residents and businesses are growing increasingly concerned over the future status of the airport.

“To date, Minister Dempsey has led Cork on a wild goose chase over independence for Cork Airport. He ignored an offer from the airport to accept a €113 million debt in return for full independence from Dublin Airport Authority. Now he is consigning Cork Airport to another three years of limbo status.

“There is clearly no political will at any level in this Government to implement the proposals in the State Airport Act of four years ago. This Act proposed to separate Dublin, Cork and Shannon Airports and would have allowed the DAA to transfer the new terminal to Cork Airport with no debt.

“In spite of years of campaigning and diligence by the Cork Airport board, airport workers and business and community interests, the Government has pressed ahead with its own secret plans. Cork Airport will end up saddled with debts which have been incurred by the DAA, but without the power to fight its own corner. That is bad for Cork and the entire region.”