Trevor Quinn
THERE was more good news for Ireland West Airport Knock yesterday (Monday) after it was announced that the airport is to receive €4.1 million in funding from the Government over the next three years.
The funding which has been approved following an application by the airport under the Regional Airports Capital Expenditure Grant Scheme will help to facilitate the installation of safety and security equipment, (including CCTV), and upgrades to Runway End Safety Areas and Turnpads at the airport.
Just over a week ago Ryanair announced that flights to four new European destinations would commence in March 2012 to Barcelona, Frankfurt, Milan and Paris which is expected to be worth more than €20 million to the west’s tourism economy.
Speaking about the latest €4.1 million in Government funding Joe Gilmore, Managing Director Ireland West Airport Knock said, “We welcome this decision by Government to support the essential Runway End Safety Area works to be carried out at the airport which are of critical importance to ensure the safe and continued operation of flights and to ensure the airport complies with all relevant safety regulations.”
Mr Gilmore said that he expects the works on the Runway End Safety Area will create 35 new jobs during the planning and implementation phases.
Mr Gilmore also wished to acknowledge the continued support and co-operation of Minister Varadkar and Minister Ring and local TD’s John O’Mahony and Michelle Mulherin during this process. Tourism interests across the region have welcomed this further investment by the Government in upgrading the facilities at the airport and ensuring the best possible safety standards for commuters.
