10 Nov Additional funding package for Ireland West Airport Knock – Dillon

Mayo TD Alan Dillon Fine Gael spokesperson on Tourism and Sport today welcomes news that that Government has agreed a revised additional €6 million funding package for the regional airports including IWAK, Kerry and Donegal.

In recognition of the very difficult winter season facing the aviation sector, Government has decided to provide an extra €6 million in supports for 2021, in addition to the €21m in funding available under the Regional Airports Programme 2021.

“The funding package will also include an Airport Charges Rebate Scheme for January to March 2021, subject to State Aid approval from the EU Commission. This is one of the recommendations made by the Task Force for Aviation Recovery and, at an estimated cost of €20m, will support the retention of core connectivity through the Winter season, Said Deputy Dillon.

“I have highlighted the devastating impact of the global pandemic on our regional airports in particular Ireland West Airport Knock, but thankfully Government remain committed to ensuring that the aviation sector can maintain the necessary core capability to retain strategic connectivity and to quickly rebound when circumstances allow.

The Department of Transport will also provide further operational and capital funding supports of €22m for Cork and Shannon Airport, which is in addition to the €10m in capital funding announced in Budget 2021.