Council motion for 'imperative decision' on Waterford Airport 

At the latest Plenary meeting, an emergency motion was brought forward for Waterford Airport.

Councillor Donal Barry (Independent) brought forward the motion for funding on the airport in the wake of recent news. 

Earlier this month, Ryanair CEO Michael O'Leary referred to the supporters of infrastructural investment in the airport as 'local lunatics'. 

The jibe resurfaced later on the meeting, as Cllr Barry said that the comment was 'detrimental to the narrative we need to present to potential investors.' 

Nine councillors supported Cllr Barry on the motion, including Cllr Davy Daniels (Ind), Joe O'Riordan (Ind), Declan Barry (Ind), Mary Roache (Social Democrats), Joeanne Bailey (Sinn Féin), and Donnchadh Mulcahy (SF). The motion urged Minister for Transport Darragh O'Brien to progress with the business plan submitted by the Board of Waterford Airport. The motion stated that it was 'imperative that the decision be made without further delay about the much needed plans for the airport to move forward. 

Cllr Barry said: "It tarnishes the reputation of Waterford and the broader South East region in terms of attracting investment. 

"In recognition of the airport's importance and significance, Waterford City and County Council has dedicated an entire section of our development plan to support the airport."