Ahern says Government will work to address Cork Airport concerns

The Taoiseach, Bertie Ahern, has said the Government will work to address the concerns of the Cork Airport over the debts relating to its new terminal building.

Former Transport Minister Seamus Brennan promised in 2003 that the airport would begin operating independently without any debts following the break-up of Aer Rianta.

However, the Government has now proposed that it take on €100m of its €220m debt, with the remainder being paid by the Dublin Airport Authority (DAA).

Last night, the Cork Airport Authority voted not to accept the proposal and to hire consultants to negotiate satisfactory terms and conditions.

Asked about the matter during a visit to Youghal today, Mr Ahern sidestepped questions about the Government breaching its promises.

He said he welcomed yesterday's decision by the CAA and the Government would work to address the authority's concerns.