Taoiseach says Waterford Airport has "very compelling case"

Taoiseach Simon Harris said the case for Waterford Airport is "very compelling", during a debate in the Dáil last night.

Sinn Féin TD for Waterford, Deputy David Cullinane raised the issue of the airport stating he was "growing very impatient" regarding the issue of the facility Waterford Airport and the need for State funding to extend its runway."

"There is a lot of very harsh feeling in Waterford regarding comments made by the Minister of State, Deputy Lawless, last week, when he used the words, 'pig in a poke', in responding to questions on this issue," said Deputy Cullinane.

"It has caused a lot of offence. Why are we still waiting? We have been told that information is being sought from the board, which has been given, including business cases and more detail that was needed, yet we are still waiting," he added.

Deputy Cullinane pressed the Taoiseach on when a decision will be made on "funding Waterford Airport to extend its runway to allow that airport to thrive?"

In response, the Taoiseach said: "I am in favour of the Waterford Airport development." He also acknowledged the frustration in Waterford in reaction to the recent comments made by Minister Lawless.

"I know there is frustration in Waterford. I thank the Deputy for raising the issue regarding a decision," said the Taoiseach.

"I will seek an update from the Minister for Transport. My understanding is that the business case is with him for consideration," he added, before "In my view, there is a very compelling case in respect of Waterford Airport. That is a strongly held view across the political spectrum in Waterford," the Taoiseach added, promising to revert to Deputy Cullinane with more information.

The board of Waterford Airport is due to meet with Minister of State Lawless today, October 24.