€4.7 million funding boost for Knock airport
IRELAND West Airport Knock is to receive €4,760,485 in funding for new safety, security, and sustainability systems.
The capital investment comes under the Regional Airports Programme 2021-2025.
Key safety and security related projects to be supported include a major upgrade of the airport's electrical infrastructure across the entire campus, the construction of a new fire training centre, purchase of a new fire tender vehicle, and runway end safety area upgrades.
It also support sustainability initiatives as the airport undertakes work on a number of projects to meet its commitment of nett zero for carbon emissions by 2050.
The airport will invest over €1 million to support the completion of these projects in addition to the exchequer funding.
Arthur French, chairman, Ireland West Airport, said: “We welcome today’s announcement of funding by the Minister of State at the Department of Transport, Hildegarde Naughton, which will assist the airport in undertaking critically important safety and security related projects this year.
“This funding will support the latest phase of our airport transformation programme aimed at both future-proofing the airport and ensuring our facilities meet the needs of our customers as we prepare for a significant increase in demand for international travel this summer and for the remainder of 2022.
“I wish to thank the Taoiseach, Ministers Ryan and in particular our local Minister Hildegarde Naughton who works tirelessly in supporting this airport and region and also to our local TDs, political representatives and the Western Chambers for their strong support for the airport and the regions it serves.”
Mayo Fine Gael TD Alan Dillon has welcomed today’s announcement by Minister Naughton of over €6.6 million in capital funding to regional airports.
Said Deputy Dillon: “Our airports and aviation sector have had an incredibly tough two years so investments such as this are more welcome than ever.
“We all know the importance and benefit of Ireland West Airport Knock to our county and the west and north-west regions, and the exceptional quality standards and service they provide in Knock is to be commended. This funding to support capital investments at Knock airport will help ensure it can bounce back quickly once air travel resumes.”
Almost €16.4 million in Exchequer funding was allocated today to regional airports under the Regional Airports Programme 2021-2025. Some €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.
“This investment,” said Deputy Dillon, “reinforces the importance and value that this government places on the role of our regional airports in supporting tourism and jobs, and this funding is essential in ensuring Knock airport has the sufficient support needed to continue providing their important services, particularly with the impacts of Covid-19 on this industry.”
Deputy Michael Ring said this capital funding will support a great number of safety and security related capital projects, ensuring airports can continue to remain compliant with regulatory requirements in these areas.
“The investment in Ireland West Airport Knock will help our regional airport to remain financially sustainable as it prepares for growth into the future.
“IWAK is a tremendous asset for the people of the west of Ireland and I welcome this allocation,” he commented.
Senators Lisa Chambers and Paddy Burke have also welcomed the funding.