SDLP Leader and Foyle MLA Colum Eastwood has welcomed today’s news that the NI Executive has agreed a funding package to support City of Derry Airport.
No details of the package have been released as yet but it is expected to be unveiled in the coming days.
It is hoped the funding will secure jobs and the long term viability of the North West airport.
He said, “While we still wait for the details of the Executive’s proposals, we welcome that that they have announced a funding package for City of Derry Airport.
“However, their intervention cannot amount only to a quick fix that merely allows Derry Airport to survive. They must demonstrate continuing commitment to its future growth and take the burden for its future success off the local ratepayer.
“As City of Derry Airport services the entire North West of Ireland, we will also be seeking a meeting with the Southern Transport Minister Shane Ross to discuss the reinstatement of the PSO for the Derry-Dublin route.
“With the future of Derry Airport lies too the future of Derry’s economy, opportunities for our people and their ability to build a life here. The Executive cannot fumble it.”
SDLP Foyle MP Mark Durkan said: “Whilst the details of this financial support is yet to be revealed it is nevertheless very positive news for Derry.
“It is not just an announcement of a package which is sealed and fixed for now, but which seems to be projecting support over the next number of years.
“I know from meetings with airport management that this is what they have wanted in their discussions with the Executive.
“That sort of underwriting from the Executive is very important. It should also not be seen as a bailout. It is about moving the airport into a better position whereby it can explore with other airlines additional routes in a much more positive context.
“Indeed, it is about creating a context and the circumstances whereby the airport can be taken forward, and one in which its work can be pursued much more positively – particularly in the aftermath of Ryanair’s recent decision.
“I know from my contacts with other airlines in the past who have been interested in City of Derry that they have indicated they didn’t want to come in – or try to come in – whilst Ryanair were there.
“However, we have now gone beyond that stance. The fact is we have a very different context now – not only in terms of a welcome commitment from the Executive but I also hope from the Department for Transport who are responding positively to the airport’s submission for PSO support for a daily service to London.
“This was the question I asked of the Transport Secretary Chris Grayling in the House of Commons today. I have also met the NI Secretary of State James Brokenshire yesterday and today at Westminster to discuss the future funding of the airport – and I know he is very positive in the soundings he is giving to the Department for Transport about that bid.
“I therefore hope we get to a situation whereby there is a clear PSO from the government that supports a daily service to London and one which is viable and attractive to people.
“I also hope that all of these positives come together after the difficulties of this week’s announcement by Ryanair, which will reward some of the good work on behalf of the airport.”
