With the DAA releasing its own annual results, Shannon Group got in on the act too – revealing its contribution to the Irish economy.
A new report by W2 Consulting shows it supports 46,000 jobs, generates an economic impact of €3.6bn a year and contributes €1.1bn in Exchequer returns.
With 85pc of all passenger traffic going through Dublin Airport, Shannon Airport made its case as a gateway to the West of Ireland on the back of the report.
The semi-state company, formed in 2014, comprises Shannon Airport, Shannon Commercial Properties and Shannon Heritage, Ireland’s largest operator of tourist attractions.
Matthew Thomas CEO Shannon Group and Mark O’Connell W2 Consulting. Photo: Sean Curtin True Media
Matthew Thomas, CEO, Shannon Group said: “Our €150m investment plan to 2021, contained in the National Development Plan, is a statement of Shannon Group’s intent and our determination to maximise the Group’s impact. We are accelerating our investment plans to provide the critical infrastructure that will enable our region to grow.
“Strong regions and regional cities make for a strong national economy. Investment in the Atlantic corridor from Galway through Shannon, Limerick and onto Cork is hugely important to deliver strategic and focused regional development. Such investment will be critical to creating a counter-balance to the growth in the Dublin region.”
Mr Thomas said if Shannon Airport is to grow, with the Group in all creating 7,150 more jobs in the next five years, greater air connectivity – and government backing – is vital.
“We welcome the recognition in the National Planning Framework that the effectiveness of our airport will be vital to our future competitiveness and its acknowledgement that the need to leverage further international connectivity to drive future growth is crucial,” Mr Thomas said.
“This must now be balanced with policy initiatives that; support us to grow air connectivity and increase funding to support tourism growth, which will enable us to accelerate our investment plans.”
