Fine Gael TD for Mayo, John O’Mahony, has commended the Ireland West Airport Knock Study (IWAKS ) Group for the substantial work carried out by the group, which was established at the request of the Taoiseach following a meeting at the airport with the board in January. The study group will be reporting on options and opportunities for the growth and development of the airport. Deputy O’Mahony was speaking after the second meeting at the weekend of the IWAKS. “Since the first meeting of IWAKS just over three weeks ago, it was evident that progress has been made on a substantial work programme which the group has identified as being necessary. Included in this programme is to determine the role of the airport in the region and how it can support sectors such as enterprise and tourism.
“I am also delighted to be able to confirm that additional capital funding of over €650,000 will be provided by the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport for essential capital works at the airport. This follows on from the announcement last week by Minster for Tourism of funding that will be targeted at increasing tourist passengers number to the North West region through IWAK and the western region.”
Deputy O’Mahony said: “At the meeting, it was decided to commission a study on specific elements of the required works and this will examine how we can secure a financially viable future for Ireland West Airport Knock. The key elements of a request for tender were also agreed will be finalised and published this week on the e-tenders website. It will be funded jointly by the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport, Mayo County Council and IWAK.
“I look forward to continuing to work with the IWAK and provide a report to the Taoiseach and Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Leo Varadkar.”
