Let O’Leary put Cork on the wing

CORK’S new airport terminal epitomises what an airport should be — modern, a host to some of Europe’s leading airlines and a focal point for Corkonians and tourists alike.

However, the failure of Government to honour the €120m debt cannot be helping. Ryanair’s offer to take over the disused terminal was rejected by Cork Airport Authority (CAA) and “planning issues” were cited as the main reason. Ryanair continues to dominate the European airline market and an offer by Michael O’Leary to turn Cork into a major European hub could only have been good for the airport on two counts:

1. Help reduce the €120m debt, and

2. Allow Cork to compete (in time) with major European hubs like London Stansted and Frankfurt (Hahn).

By having the old terminal reopened, the CAA could maximise their facilities and their reserve, reduce landing charges, entice more airlines and increase flight frequencies of existing airlines like Aer Lingus.

This would help create more jobs, increase tourist numbers and create more choice and destinations for Corkonians wanting to travel to new places.

It’s time for the CAA to step out of the Dublin Airport Authority’s shadow. The debt issue won’t go away and the CAA needs to consider every option. Many Cork people miss the old terminal, particularly the viewing gallery upstairs.

Ryanair wants to use it and planning issues can be sorted. It’s over to the CAA now to decide what to do.

Alan O’Mahony

Laurel Ridge

Shanakiel

Cork