EU Commission approve Regional Airport Programme to support Knock Airport – Perry

Fine Gael TD for Sligo/Leitrim, John Perry, has welcomed the announcement by the Minister for Transport, Tourism & Sport, Paschal Donohoe, that the European Commission has formally approved Ireland’s 2015-2019 Regional Airports Programme, which will support Knock Airport into the future.

“Ireland’s 2015-2019 Regional Airports Programme permits Ireland to provide financial supports to the regional airports up to a maximum level of €42.5m over the period 2015 to 2019 through the Core Airport Management Operational Expenditure (OPEX) Scheme and a Regional Airports Capital Expenditure Grant (CAPEX) Scheme.

“The approval of the 2015-2019 Programme will greatly assist Knock Airport in working towards a position of viability. Under the 2014 EU Guidelines, all of Ireland’s regional airports have until April 2024 to become self-sufficient before OPEX supports are discontinued.

“The level of funding to be provided to Knock Airport each year will be determined on the basis of submissions from the airport and the availability of exchequer resources. In addition to the financial supports provided through the EU State aid rules, the Exchequer will also provide assistance for costs associated with Public Policy Remit requirements.

“I commend Minister Donohoe on the successful outcome of these lengthy negotiations, which have been ongoing since July 2014. Knock Airport is of major importance to support local businesses and to provide a link to the rich tourism offerings in the North West.

“Knock Airport will now make their submissions to the Department of Transport, Tourism & Sport for supports under the Programme.”