Aer Rianta monopoly may be ending

The Government is reported to be considering ending Aer Rianta’s monopoly at Dublin airport.

It is believed Public Enterprise Minister Mary O’Rourke may allow the private sector to operate a second terminal at the airport.

Several companies have been competing to build a second terminal at Dublin airport for some time.

Businessman Ulick McEvaddy first devised the proposal five years ago, while Ryanair have repeatedly offered to build the terminal and hand it over to the Government, giving them space to launch 10 new European routes.

Tourism Minister Jim McDaid is also likely to welcome anything that will lower access costs and bring more flights into the city.

Aer Rianta will be dismayed at the plans, which follow last week’s recommendation of a cut in airport landing fees.