Intervention sought to save Galway Airport

GALWAY Airport and Galway Chamber of Commerce have asked local TDs to intervene in the current funding crisis facing the facility.[private] The airport in Carnmore is seeking a Government subsidy of €1.5 million for this year but the Transport Minister has already indicated that such financial support is not available. President of Galway Chamber Carmel Brennan said the airport is a vital piece of infrastructure of Galway and that it is critical that local elected representatives make their voices heard now before a decision is taken. 'Galway Airport's extensive access to international hub airports continues to be a key selling point in maintaining and attracting investment into the West region. 'The availability of an airport was and is a factor in the decision by multinational companies to set up in Galway and it is a factor in their decisions to stay here. These companies employ over 12,000 people in the area. Anything that puts our airport in jeopardy puts the next generation of overseas companies in jeopardy also,' said Carmel Brennan. Board Chairman Michael Corless was pleased with the commitment given by local representatives to support the future of Galway Airport.[/private]