Consulting the public, the business community, and employers will be the only reliable guide to potential future uses of Galway Airport and to ensuring that aviation services on the site are protected.
This is the view of Independent county councillor James Charity, who this week welcomed the return of commercial aviation services to Galway Airport in Carnmore. The airport is being operated under a lease from the Galway city and county councils by Carnmore Aviation Limited and the Conneely Group until May.
Cllr Charity is now calling for a broad based consultation process to allow for submissions from the public and employers on the airport. In December, both local authorities jointly engaged Future Analytics Limited to undertake a feasibility study into future possible uses of the airport, including aviation activity.
Cllr Charity said “it is important” the consultant’s study “does not jeopardise” the future of aviation services at Carnmore. “It is important for growth, employment, and tourism in Galway that the airport is retained for aviation services,” he said.
Cllr Charity has been in direct contact with Future Analytics Limited, to enquire if public submissions would be facilitated as part of its process. He was informed the consultation process is still at the planning stage such that no commitment to public consultation could be given. However FAL informed the councillor that it would be considered as discussions with the councils progressed.
