'The people of Waterford are being left behind' TD criticises inaction on airport

Sinn Féin TD Conor McGuinness has said the people of Waterford are being left behind.

The deputy was commenting on the ongoing issue of funding for the runway extension at Waterford Airport.

"The people of Waterford and the South East are once again being left behind. Despite repeated promises and protracted assessments, the Government has failed to deliver the funding required to extend and upgrade the runway at Waterford Airport.

"Every missed deadline and every delayed decision sends the wrong message about the Government’s commitment to balanced regional development. Waterford and the wider South East cannot afford to be an afterthought any longer," said Deputy McGuinness.

Earlier this month, Deputy McGuinness submitted a parliamentary question to the Minister for Transport in which he asked when he would make a decision and what factors were under consideration.

The minister responded that he was being briefed by his officials and was "considering next steps."

However, Deputy McGuinness said this was not good enough.

He said "stalling" would undermine investor and business confidence in the region.

“Waterford Airport is a critical piece of infrastructure for our region, with the potential to unlock major economic and tourism opportunities, support regional development, and create much-needed jobs. 

"The delay in providing funding is simply unacceptable and speaks volumes about this Government’s neglect of the South East," said Deputy McGuinness.