Shannon Group CEO Says Airport Needs Support To Survive

© Shannon Airport Picture

Shannon Group’s CEO has expressed confidence that the Airport can survive, but only if adequate supports are put in place.

Mary Considine says a multi-million euro support package is needed from Government to cover operational costs.

It comes in the wake of the announcement by Ryanair that it’s to close it’s bases in Shannon and Cork.

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Ryanair’s closure of its Shannon base leaves the Airport with just three destinations and a total eight weekly scheduled passenger services, operated by Ryanair aircraft based elsewhere.

The news has compounded an already difficult period, with Shannon Group revenues down by 1.3 million euro each since March.

€10 million was earmarked for capital works at Shannon and Cork this week, but today Shannon Group CEO Mary Considine stated that much more is needed.

She’s confident that the airport can weather the Covid storm in the long term, if adequate supports are put in place now.

The Group is hopeful that further supports will be announced as part of the National Economic Plan which is due to be unveiled next month, and last night the Dáil heard an indication that other supports could be announced next week.

That came from Transport Minister Eamon Ryan, after he faced questions from TDs including Joe Carey, Violet-Anne Wynne and Michael McNamara.

Eamon Ryan hasn’t ruled out bringing Shannon Airport back under the umbrella of the Dublin Airport Authority, despite pouring cold water on the prospect last month.

However, speaking in the Dail, he said he believes such a move wouldn’t address other issues:

Meanwhile, Forsa claims the pilots and crew it represents that will be temporarily laid off by Ryanair at Shannon want the airport to return to the control of the DAA.

55 staff will be let go temporarily, as the airline’s Midwest base closes for the winter.

Forsa Assistant General Secretary, Ian McDonnell believes it’s the only way to cement the airport’s long term future.