Fianna Fáil TD for Mayo Dara Calleary has welcomed the news that Knock airport is to share in additional funding of €6 million alongside Kerry and Donegal.
This once-off grant is for Covid-19 related losses in 2020.
Deputy Calleary said: “I welcome this additional funding for our vital regional airports-Ireland West Airport Knock in particular. I hosted a virtual meeting last Friday between An Taoiseach Micheál Martin TD and both the Chairman and Chief Executive of Ireland West Airport Knock. Both put forward an excellent case for additional funding and I pay tribute to them and all the staff at the airport for their work in this very difficult year.
The funding package will also include an Airport Charges Rebate Scheme for January to March 2021, subject to State Aid approval from the EU Commission. This is one of the recommendations made by the Task Force for Aviation Recovery and, at an estimated cost of €20m, will support the retention of core connectivity through the Winter season.
“Ireland West Airport Knock is essential for the continued prosperity of our county on the national stage. I believe this funding will help secure its future. It will also give some security to airport employees during what has been a very challenging year. The damage caused by Covid-19 may require further supports for our airport-I will continue to work with the management, staff and my colleagues on Mayo County Council to support the airport” concluded Deputy Calleary.
