Dublin, Cork and Shannon Airports to split

Independent Airport Authorities are to be established for Dublin, Shannon and Cork Airports, effectively ending Aer Rianta's role in the running of the country's airports.

Three separate companies with three autonomous boards will be set up to run Dublin, Shannon and Cork independently.

No State funds will be made available to Cork and Shannon Airports. All debts they accrued will be transferred to the company running Dublin Airport, enabling both to start from scratch.

Transport Minister Seamus Brennan made the announcement today after a meeting with Aer Rianta chairman, Noel Hanlon.

Hanlon said afterwards that he accepted the Government's right to make policy decisions concerning the semi-state airport operator.

However, SIPTU responded to the news angrily labeling it a "reckless piece of institutionalized vandalism".