ISME calls for airport action

SMALL business group ISME has said the Government must ensure that any new terminal at Dublin Airport is run by an independent operator.

ISME said the decision must be made soon as the facilities at Dublin Airport are similar to those of a "Third World airport servicing a first world economy."

The group's chairman Robert Berney said air travel is hugely important to an island economy and it is essential we have the proper facilities for low-cost travel.

"A second terminal for the overcrowded airport was promised in the Government election manifesto in 2002. However, three years on and there has been no decision on its location, size, or who will build or run it.

"This is completely unacceptable both to the ordinary traveller and business users who rely on a fast efficient service," Mr Berney said.

The Cabinet was briefed on proposals for the aviation sector by Transport Minister Martin Cullen last week. It is believed these included plans for a second terminal at Dublin Airport, but run by the Dublin Airport Authority (DAA).

However, ISME says it favours a terminal not run by the DAA as an independent operator would bring price competition.

Mr Berney added: "The suggested collaboration between the Dublin Airport Authority and SIPTU is a non-runner, which would only lead to future disruptions, delays and inefficiencies. The new monopoly is not the appropriate structure to introduce competition at the airport."