'A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,' Waterford councillor says airport proposal is a yes for him
The protest is to demand government funding for Waterford Airport. Stock Image.
Councillor Declan Barry has come out in support of the new proposal to fund the development of Waterford Airport.
The proposal is to be put to councillors at a special sitting of Waterford City and County Council on Monday, October 20.
Cllr Barry said he is urging his elected colleagues to support the proposal.
“This is not only for us but for our children and our children’s children.
“This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and we simply cannot afford to miss.
“Waterford Airport is on the brink of something exciting and how we progress and prosper into the future depends on the decision that is taken at this Monday’s Plenary meeting.
“Let’s deliver a viable, vibrant, efficient airport for the people of Waterford and indeed all of the people of the Southeast,” said Cllr Barry.
The Waterford City East councillor said that he will be proposing that Section 183 (the provision for the disposal of land) be accepted on Monday.
He said there are legal safeguards in place, such as an anti-embarrassment clause in the agreement and that no lands will be handed over until the lengthening and widening of the runway is completed.
Cllr Barry said an approval on Monday will give the opportunity “the best chance of success".
“I am fully supportive of this new investment proposal and I urge each and every one of my fellow councillors to grasp this opportunity.
“A fully functional airport here in the Southeast will be a game changer for the 500,000 people living in this catchment area.
“If we are going to advance as a region and realise our full potential, an airport is a must,” said Cllr Barry.
Read our explainer here for more information on exactly what Monday’s vote will consider.
