Welcoming the Taoiseach was Kevin Thompstone, the former CEO of Shannon Development, who thanked Mr Varadkar for having the foresight as Minister for Transport to give Shannon Airport its independence.
Mr Thompstone reflected on Shannon’s history of internationally trading manufacturing, beginning with early foreign direct investment and culminating in successful indigenous companies such as Mincon and Ei Electronics that have become significant employers producing innovative products for world markets.
Mr Varadkar stated that this part of the country has been close to his heart for some time as he developed a personal connection during his time as Minister for Tourism, Transport and Sport when it was decided to separate Shannon Airport from the Dublin Airport Authority and establish an independent State-owned enterprise.
Recalling that Shannon handled 3.5 million passengers at its peak, he said that’s what is aimed for in the years ahead while also continuing to develop the industrial zone and attracting employment and investment into the area in the years ahead.
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