Knock Airport strenghtens immigration service

The first full-time Garda Immigration Unit will open at Ireland West Airport Knock today.

The Co Mayo hub hopes the new facility will enhance passenger security and boost business growth.

One sergeant and seven gardaí will operate from a base in the main concourse at the Airport.

Officers from Knock, Swinford, Charlestown and Ballyhaunis garda stations previously worked shifts at the hub.

A total of 567,000 passengers passed through the Airport in 2007 but it expects to increase this to 700,000 in 2008.

A proposed extension to the terminal building aims to double capacity in the existing check-in and departure lounge areas.