Shannon Development backs separating airport from DAA

THE removal of Shannon Airport from the control of the Dublin Airport Authority would allow the mid-west airport to finally realise its potential, it was claimed last night.

Shannon Development, which played a key role in the running of the airport until 1995, welcomed news that a Government-commissioned report on the future of the aviation industry is to propose that Shannon be put into the hands of local public and commercial bodies.

“This is very much in line with what Shannon Development had recommended,” said Vincent Cunnane, chief executive of Shannon Development.

“We would be very happy with that. We have believed for a long time that separation from the DAA is vital for Shannon Airport to realise its full potential. I think that is the view of the region. I believe you need more competition in the airport sector in Ireland. What works for Dublin and possibly Cork, is not actually working for Shannon.”

Sources say the Booz report suggests the new holding company could either manage Shannon Airport itself or through a concession model.

The latter would mean it would be operated by the private sector body while remaining in public ownership. That model exists in Luton Airport and 26 airports in Canada.

Whatever model is chosen, Mr Cunnane said Shannon Development had a key role to play in the airport’s future.

He said it was only after 1995 that the airport and Shannon Development were separated and that before they had worked closely with Shannon Development, providing route development and marketing.

“To be fair, it was some of its most successful days, certainly its most innovative,” he said.

“Shannon Development is a natural partner.”

Meanwhile, the report’s recommendation that Cork Airport become a more equal partner with Dublin under the umbrella of the DAA, will be welcomed by local politicians including Fine Gael TD Jerry Buttimer who have called for the airport to be given greater autonomy.

Last month, writing in this newspaper, Cork Chamber president John Mullins appeared to call for an arrangement similar to that being proposed for Shannon. He said the solution should consist of a local company as asset owner represented by a competent board, representative of the region.