Ireland’s Minister of State at the Department of Transport, Jack Chambers, has announced €11.2m in direct exchequer support for operations to five regional airports under the regional airports programme 2021-2025.
The funding aims to assist with essential safety and security operations at Donegal, Kerry, Ireland West, and Shannon airports, helping them comply with regulatory requirements. A further €26.6m in capital funding was announced earlier.
The operational allocations for 2023 are €0.721m for Donegal, €1.423m for Kerry, €1.869 for Ireland West, and €7.172m for Shannon, totalling €11.185m.
A statement said: *Cork Airport is not eligible for operational supports under the Regional Airports Programme in 2023, due to the strong rebound in passenger traffic in 2022 (2.24m pax). However, as announced earlier this year, in recognition of the important role of Cork Airport to the economy of the south region and nationally, capital funding of €6m has been made available to Cork Airport this year. This funding, which will support, in principle, the commencement of a significant security screening project next year, is consistent with the Programme for Government action to deliver capital programmes required to support services and ensure safety at our State and regional airports.”
This funding marks a 4.5pc increase from last year’s allocations and is expected to support eligible salary costs associated with safety, security, and air traffic control in 2023.
The additional €16.63m in capital supports announced earlier this year, brings the total to €28m in funding for Irish regional airports in 2023.
Irish regional airports have seen a 9pc increase in passenger traffic up to October this year compared to 2019, thanks to the Exchequer supports, reinforcing the critical role of connectivity for economic development, foreign direct investment, and tourism.
